Ben Heyworth’s return to the spotlight with his new EP “Creature” is a cinematic and atmospheric triumph that feels like walking through Manchester’s canals at dusk, the city humming beneath your boots. Known from his days with sci-fi indie rock outfit Minorplanet and later for the chilled electronica of This Morning Call, Heyworth now steps fully into his folk-singer identity, blending weathered wisdom with textured storytelling and stripped-back instrumentation.
Opening track “Narrowboat” sets the tone with a sparse, melancholic guitar riff that carries the weight of reflection. Heyworth’s husky, clear voice simply exists, like a friend talking softly late at night. Lyrically, it’s as much about solitude as it is about searching, and the slow tempo gives his words space to linger.
The second track, “Image of Roads,” picks up the pace slightly, driven by catchy acoustic plucks and layered harmonies that build with satisfying ease. There’s an emotional warmth here, especially in the bridge, where a mellow melody flows like a second thought that suddenly becomes the main idea.
But the standout moment is “Creature Double Feature,” where shimmering guitars and hypnotic vocals form a spellbound groove. The title lyric, “Am I just a creature double feature waiting for the bells to ring?” is a poetic punch, evoking existential dread with whimsical phrasing. There’s something Tori Amos-esque in its off-kilter magic, while the arrangement nods to Damon Albarn’s more contemplative moments.
Recorded at Manchester’s legendary Blueprint Studios, the EP reflects Heyworth’s deep roots in the city’s musical fabric. With indie-folk intimacy and soft, soulful experimentation, “Creature” is a compelling reintroduction to a seasoned artist finding new ways to haunt and heal. Check it out on Spotify.
STAY IN TOUCH:
INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE
Review by: Naomi Joan