Book of Churches – Book of Churches

If the name Felix Mackenzie-Barrow is familiar to you, it’s likely because Divorce—the Nottingham-based band he plays guitar and shares vocal duties for—released one of the more accomplished debuts of 2025 in Drive to Goldenhammer. But rather than bask in the glory of a #25 ranking on our Best Albums of 2025 list, Felix has embraced the time-honoured tradition of the side project. 

Book of Churches is his debut solo release and it is immediately apparent that Mackenzie-Barrow sees the project of the same name as a more stripped-back, folk-influenced outlet. Nick Drake is an obvious influence on the finger-picked “All The Good Things,” a clear highlight with its stream-of-consciousness lyrics and tender chorus. Elsewhere, I’m reminded of Mojave 3 and recent Divorce collaborator, Marcus Mumford—which, given my thoughts on Mumford & Sons, might sound like an insult, but really isn’t intended as one.

Mackenzie-Barrow is clearly a talented songwriter and, taken individually, most of the material here is engaging. Taken sequentially, however, his sparse compositions blur together, emphasising his vocal limitations and rendering Book of Churches a somewhat dour affair. Some added instrumental colour, more pronounced tempo shifts, or even a couple of well-chosen guest vocalists would have neutralised this effect.

That said, I respect Mackenzie-Barrow’s choice to make a true solo record, and its shortcomings as an album are no reflection on his ability to smartly assemble a song.

Book of Churches is out now via Gravity / Capitol.