Considering the favorable notices it garnered in the UK, it’s surprising that Just Like Blood has taken nearly a year to land on American shores. Moreover, it’s puzzling because McRae could easily fit into the David Gray School of doleful, moody British singer/songwriters (an approach that proved quite profitable for Gray). But aside from the mellow vibe and the vulnerable, wounded vocal quality they share, there are key distinctions between the artists. Where Gray built his tunes on a radio-friendly rhythmic foundation, McRae relies on a more organic approach. Perhaps most audacious in its simplicity is the kalimba he employs on “A Day Like Today.” On songs like “Human Remains” and “Walking 2 Hawaii” he places his self-exploring lyrics in simple settings, adding subtle elements to create intrigue as the songs develop. While McRae’s acoustic aesthetic might come off a bit too precious for some, he delivers an emotionally direct and overall impressive disc.