There aren't many albums that can appear in my work mailbox and make me gasp like a fanboy, but here's one of 'em. Ben Ottewell's day job is singer for rootsy Brit-pop band Gomez, a sprawling, jammy crew beloved in the U.K. — but still a cult fave over thisaway. The band is tricky and cryptic and political, unafraid to experiment to the point of losing listeners. And yet, whenever Ottewell takes the mike, his otherworldly tenor, both haunted and romantic, grabs your heart and pulls you close. On Gomez gems We Haven't Turned Around and See the World, Ottewell proves to be singular talent, with a voice that borders on outsider art. It's not for everyone — but it should be.

For Gomez die-hards and Ottewell freaks (I'm a member of both small, worshipful clubs), the arrival of Shapes & Shadows, the singer's debut solo album, is major news. In stores on Feb. 15, the nine-track record opens with a bit of muscle — the title track and Lightbulbs cook with Oasis fuel — a rockin' edge that isn't quite right for Ottewell's heartbreaking end-credit delivery. It makes you wonder if Ben bolted his boys because he wanted to show off a few tattoos and scars.

But soon enough, the all-world singer, who co-wrote the album with childhood friend Sam Genders, delivers the soul-kneading stuff, including sweeping acher Chose, a gauzy beaut meant to be played as you gaze out an airplane window and embrace the drama of your tumultuous life. It's a tremendous song with a string-kissed finish, and Ottewell's slightly broken voice, both childlike and weary, is in ideal form. Almost as good is album closer Take This Beach ("Hello, Green Eyes, it's good to see you again . . ."), which is another Ottewell specialty: the bittersweet joy of looking back. It's a killer for sure, and will have you visiting your past's shadowy corners. Not many singers can take you there. But not many singers can also bring you back better for the journey, too.