It’s often hard to reconcile that Tamas Wells is a band, and not just the frontman of said band. This music is simple, perhaps so slight, that perhaps the only true reminder is in the liner notes, where who played what is listed.

With shorter songs and a more focussed nature than debut A Mark on the Pane, Tamas Wells’ A Plea en Vendredi marks a distinct movement towards a more radio-ready sound. Single “Valder Fields” is a beautiful pop song. Likewise, the descending vocal melody on “Lichen and Bees” is immediately memorable.

It’s true that the comparison with Simon & Garfunkel is as evident as it was in the past, with Wells’ vocals sharing similar characteristics to those of Art, and tracks like “The Opportunity Fair” and “I’m Sorry That the Kitchen is on Fire” would not have sounded out of place on The Sounds of Silence.

But if that’s not a backhanded compliment then what is? Most bands would kill to be favourably compared with such a brilliant act, and that’s the way Tamas Wells should take it. A Plea en Vendredi is another fine indication that Tamas Wells are one of the best kept secrets in Australia – a group capable of capturing magic and presenting it in CD form.