May 2011 marked the release of Lupercalia, the fifth album from the constantly evolving but ever artistic Patrick Wolf.

A man of many talents, Wolf has had the opportunity to work alongside the likes of Florence Welch, Tilda Swinton, Marianne Faithfull and Patti Smith. His eclectic sound and impressive list of co-workers means that his latest album comes highly anticipated – and it doesn’t disappoint.

Opening track “The City” perfectly fuses synth, pop, horns, and even indie rock sounds to create an overwhelmingly fulfilling and in a way, almost empowering song – that has the potential to thrust Wolf into the big time.

This innovative direction in sound continues throughout the album, specifically on tracks like “Bermondsey Street”, “Time Of My Life” and “Together”.

Even slower songs with darker themes, such as “Armistice”, “The Days” and the eerie filler “William” have an underlying warmth, and hopefulness about them.

All the songs on the album are densely layered and complex, yet carry a simplicity that makes them very easy to listen to. The horns and strings that weave their way through various tracks on the record are always well placed, and give the songs an extra dimension.

Patrick Wolf writes lyrics like a storyteller, and the huge range of his voice is capable of evoking an array of emotions, from bliss to despair and almost anything in between. The way he conveys his lyrics through his powerful voice is stunningly well executed, and a compliment to him as a songwriter and artist.

After appearing in Australia recently as part of Sydney festival, Wolf was warmly embraced by his ever increasing independent fan base. This album will surely see his congregation of fans overflow into the mainstream.

With “Lupercalia”, Patrick Wolf has created an album of dramatic, artful, skilfully built songs that give you no choice but to pay attention and, ultimately, thoroughly enjoy.