How would you define this record? A blend of "Indie" music, the dark and romantic singer-songwriter styles of Cohen and Cave (and perhaps others), and a refined baroque pop with an unmistakably British flavor, sublimated by a skewed and somber orchestra that nonetheless does not shy away from classic melodic beauty, even when engaged in distortions and deconstructions. Or should we simply say Pop or Indie or "Chamber" singer-songwriter? Beyond that, Stuart Staples's pen is deeply inspired, offering goosebump-inducing lyrics and melodies, dotted with stunning strings and the keyboards of Dave Boulter. A standout track worth mentioning? "Jism," with an intro that alone is worth the price of the album. One of the most elegant and profound records of the '90s.
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