This week, Matt’s creepin’ an’ a crawlin’.

The Zutons – Creepin’ An’ A Crawlin’ (Deltasonic)
The second single from The Coral’s blood brothers and label mates. But they’re much more than that, although if you like The Coral, The Bandits and the current Merseybeat sound you’ll love ‘em. Both tracks on the single are fantastic, more thoughtful and less aggressive than the aforementioned but fuelled by the same dusty, heartfelt honesty. They’re also appearing at The Coral’s A Midsummer Night’s Scream festival and they’re giving away tickets on their website. Their generosity also extends to a free sticker with the single. So get in there quick!

Tes – New New York (Lex)
Tes is the latest act to come from Warp’s hip-hop offshoot, Lex. He’s a bit like a credible Eminem, in that he’s an American white boy who has a knack with the old words. New New York, a track about his home town, sees him spitting over a string-laden backing worthy of an 80s American action series like, say, Knight Rider, but in a really good way. Honestly. Well you’ll just have to hear it then…

Tom McRae – Karaoke Soul (DB Records)
One of the stand-out tracks from Mr McRae’s rather good recent LP, one which it would be easy to lump in with David Gray although it really shouldn’t be - it’s far more interesting. With some super-catchy string orchestration, heartfelt vocals and - whisper it - bongos (yes, bongos), it builds to an extremely satisfying conclusion. Both CDs (it’s a double-pack) come with enhancements, including live videos of his recent Shepherds Bush gig.

Tindersticks – Don’t Go There (Beggars Banquet)
A new EP from old timers Tindersticks, leading the way for a new album in June. No real surprises just some nice, downbeat, warmly orchestrated tunes - although one of them is called, slightly inappropriately, Sexual Funk. And listening to it I’ve no idea why. Although, it’s a very short instrumental which may reveal more about their bedroom habits than they intended.

Fallacy – Big ‘N Bashy Feat. Tubby T (Virgin)
The first solo effort from British hip-hopper Fallacy, one-time collaborator with Blak Twang and one-half of Fallacy & Fusion. It’s accessible hip-hop with a brooding loop and a catchy, lilting chorus hook which has a slight reggae feel. It features the ragga vocal talents of Tubby T, who is apparently one to watch. Fallacy’s album, Black Market Boy is due in a couple weeks. Matt Walton 09 May 03

All singles released 12 May 03.