This quartet of mods from Birmingham are probably the most ridiculed band in Britain, persistently mocked by the music press for their retro style and relentlessly traditional brand of soul-tinged rock. Their fifth album shouldn't change a thing; it's earnest, well-crafted, unambitious and for the most part incredibly boring. While most of the songs groove along inoffensively, they're persistently weakened by repetitive tunes, throwaway lyrics and a general lack of imagination. On this evidence, Ocean Colour Scene's enduring popularity is one of life's more baffling mysteries.
