Album reviews

From the archive, first published Friday 3rd Feb 2006.

Belle and Sebastian -- The Life Pursuit

In retrospect the last album by Belle and Sebastian wasn't all that it was cracked up to be. It was too knowingly camp and kitsch, but here we have the band returning to the very peak of their talents.

The music oozes 70's glam rock and we're plunged back into a world of misfits, innocents and the slightly daft.

The sound has been much beefed up and there are instrumental flourishes a plenty.

If you previously thought that the band were merely for pale, fragile students, then think again, for this is an album for all of us to enjoy.

It seems as though they have made the album that we all knew they were capable of making.

Antony Silson

The Very Best of Love Legends

Not just any Love Legend is good enough of this two-disc set, you have to be the very best. Unless you're KT Tunstall.

The folky warbler -- good as she is -- just isn't romantic enough to rub shoulders with George Michael, Phyllis Nelson and Peabo Bryson.

But here she is, from the Other Side of the World, with 39 other songs that are bona fide lurve classics.

No surprises, but no clinkers either, this not-too-slushy selection could well be the only the Love Legends you ever need.

David Knights

Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins -- Rabbit Fur Coat

Another actress turned singer, but wait apparently Lewis started out singing in the band Rilo Kiley.

Anyway, can you name any of her film-roles? No, me neither.

Rough Trade usually have a knack for spotting talent and there is no denying that Lewis and the Watson Twins have voices to be proud of, but this is easy listening all the way.

Occasionally the songs verge on the country a western style -- particularly on Happy -- where the only thing missing is the clip-clop of horse hooves

Graham Scaife

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