FIONN REGAN The Shadow Of An Empire (2010 UK 10-track vinyl LP - If his Mercury Award-nominated debut album 'The End of History' was the sound of the countryside and woodland lanes, 'The Shadow Of An Empire' is the sound of towns and dimly lit streets; heartfelt and with a ragged edge. It was during a period of great global upheaval, whilst touring his debut album for two years worldwide, that he began work on its follow up. It seems natural that his response was to become more outward looking and in 'The Shadow of an Empire', this manifests itself in a collection of songs that are peopled with characters and conversational dialogue. The often witty vignettes are used to facilitate more complex soul-searching. Includes the single, 'Protection Racket')