24-year-old Londoner Jack Penate is back with his second album, Everything is New, the follow up to 2007's Matinee, a gold record in England, which was often savaged by the critics. His debut blended ska and skiffle sounds and was generally considered as lightweight as the 80's pop band, The Housemartins.

On Everthing is New, it seems Jack threw the past behind and started over. The sound is influenced by Philly soul, New Orleans brass bands, afrobeat, and even Brazilian tropicalia. "Give Yourself Away" is like the song you'd want to hear at a late-night party in Rio de Janeiro.

Everthing is New was produced by Paul Epwirth, who has also worked with artists like Bloc Party and Friendly Fires. Epwirth expertly gives the album a vintage sixties soul feel, sounding as though it's live in the studio with everyone having a ball. It reminded me of an old Ray Charles album. Jack Penate is the kind of artist you want to root for. He doesn't necessarily have the "matinee idol" good looks or even the greatest voice, but what he has he uses to great effect.

With the exception of "Be the One," which I found to be as slick and stylish as a Rick Astley tune, every song on this album is worthy. Jack Penate delivers his lovelorn lyrics with passion and grit. When he sings, you believe him. The album has several highlights including the opener, "Pull My Heart Away," which features Penate's blue-eyed soul vocals sung in a very British style. The album really comes together on "Tonight's Today" which has an optimistic tone with hints of gospel and soul, and guitar work straight out of King Sunny Ade's playbook. Unless you're wearing cement shoes, this one will get your toes a tappin'! I was also impressed by the song, "Let's All Die," featuring brass band styled horns worthy of a second line — the celebration after a New Orleans funeral — which seems to be where Jack Penate is at with his fine new album.