Released: 1996
Highest Chart Position:1
Don't Marry Her:
Back on form after the sometimes hit and miss Miaow, this solo by Jaqui was released as a single after a few of the more risque lyrics were changed... <
Little Blue:
A less upbeat song than the opener, but still top quality, and it's great to hear Dave back after his strange absence on Miaow.
Mirror:
Another solo from Jacqui with some interesting prostitute based lyrics.
Blackbird On The Wire:
A mournful ballad sung by Paul, very emotional. Good, but not single material, and it wasn't overly successful when released.
The Sound Of North America:
Another sad song about homelessness. The brass solo is very good.
Have Fun:
Lots of people say this is the best on the album. I'm not entirely convinced, but its still a very good song.
Liar's Bar:
Now this is a high point. Paul remoulds his normal voice into a gravelly Tom Waits style rasp for this great song. Melodically its not impressive, but lyrically its great and scores highly on originality. Released as a single.
Rotterdam:
Another solo from Jacqui, this is one of those South songs that everyone knows. Released as a successful single.
Foundations:
Almost a tribute to the Housemartins, this fast, catchy solo from Dave is one of my favourites on this album. A great guitar solo towards the end.
Artificial Flowers:
A cover of an incredibly sentimental musical song, I can't really see why they bothered with this. It's well done, but the sentimentality really gets you...
One God:
After the temporary blip of the last track, we're back on course for a great climax with this penultimate song.
Alone:
Rounds off a very good album very well. Great lyrics and a doleful perfomance from Paul. Possibly their best album ending so far.