However, the Brighton three-piece almost joined the legions of bands that fizzle out before they have hardly started. Prior to anything as serious as a record deal having been signed, Hennessey and Banks split-up, jeopardising Chungking’s future. Thankfully, they did not call it quits. On the first track, Banks sings of their love of making music and it was this desire that led to the release of ‘We Travel Fast’. It is a track that ushers in a collection of songs to rival Burt Baccarach’s soaring orchestral pop classics.

Banks’ vocal is by turns delicate and powerful. This perfectly complements songs that veer from periods of acoustic guitar calm to choruses of string and horn ornamented majesty. Initially ‘We Travel Fast’ gives the impression of being another insipid chill-out album designed simply to wash over you. Although further listening quickly reveals a debut album of greater depth. The best aspect of the album are some wonderful layered vocal harmonies that make full use of a voice that almost rivals Dusty Springfield. The only real surprise is that it took so long for Banks to reveal her potential.

Gavin Eves