Transcribed by Craig Parker
Do Harriet Wheeler and David Gavurin still dine out on the fact that their debut single, Can't Be Sure, was Number 1 in John Peel's Festive Fifty in 1989? Parlophone do. But that was two platinum albums ago (Reading, Writing And Arithmetic, a measured, likeable extension of Can't Be Sure's giddy jangle; 1992's Blind, a polished remake). Like closest stylistic forebears The Cocteau Twins, The Sundays have since set up a studio, had a baby, and lost their indie fizz, as their twentysomething angst is replaced by thirtysomething concern - but the music is still nicely guitar-driven, yodelly and plaintive. If Another Flavour and Summertime are notably beatier, pastoral slowies Leave This City and Folk Song will suit seated venues only. Meanwhile, the heartwarming closer, Monochrome, showcases Wheeler at her songbird best. It's honest urban folk made by parents - for parents.
-Andrew Collins
3 out of 5 stars (Good. Not for everyone, but fine within its field.)