Year of Release: 1993

I first encountered the above-named when they performed "The Shining Hour" and "Fuzzy" on Later with Jools Holland - from that point on I was hooked (their track "The Hook" is an appropriate reference to their effect on me"). There are only three members of the band, but they have such musical presence, both on screen and on stage. There are a few ballads featured on this album - the magnificent "Jupiter and Teardrop" to name but one. Grant Lee Phillips has an unusual voice which is used aggressively but can be applied softly equally as well. The electric guitar on "Fuzzy" really works well as it wails when the lyrics drop off.

Rating: *****

Date of Review: 13.05.96