Everything's a bit depressing just now, isn't it? Job losses, world debt, popstars beating their spouses: it's all gone a bit pear-shaped. So when you've got the weight of the world on your shoulders, you need something lighthearted to turn to.
'Fine Fascination', an album more uplifting than the cheesy climax of an X Factor Winner's Song, opens with the rhythmic, bold 'Words of Spectacular'. It's tight, it's strong and it's catchier than a bout of pre-spring flu.
The album, as a whole, is packed fit to burst with soaring, near-ethereal gems. 'New Jersey Television' - with its merry-go-round chorus and a tempo that's nothing short of hypnotic - is understatedly glorious. 'Meccano' is as gentle as it is rousing, while 'Scheme Eugene' is like 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' sung by a group of snarling, bitter children. Utterly bizarre but genuinely brilliant.
While it's hard to be fussed about the slow, samey 'First We Land', the album's highlight comes straight after to reassure us. 'With Lights Out', featured on the band's recent EP, is the song you'll play for years to come. It's an anthem, a track that builds intensity with each small note. The song is a must for Summer '09 mix CDs, and - like most of this big, stadium-filling album - an essential for instant musical comfort.Rating: 6/10
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