Singles

MERZ: Lotus (Sony) -- Perhaps a touch over-sentimental in the lyric department, but nevertheless a fine song in that it manages to find a cool balance between lush melody and groove-tastic beats. (6/10) JS

OCEAN COLOUR SCENE: July/I Am The News (Universal/Island) -- Taken from the Lock Stock TV series, these tracks find Simon Fowler and Steve Craddock back at their writing best. This riff-packed, double A-side features Craddock's driving melodies and energetic playing. (8/10) CL

Albums

VARIOUS: Bar Italia (Nascente) -- This compilation delves into the depths of sounds from the length and breadth of Italy, incorporating traditional music with fresh up-tempo vibes. A warm feeling of summer shines throughout and the blend of local roots blends nicely into the rich variety of sounds. (7/10) RP

BADLY DRAWN BOY: The Hour Of The Bewilderbeast, (Twisted Nerve through XL) -- Bewilderbeast is everything that a classic album should be and maybe something more. From the uplifting sound of the French horn and cello that herald The Shining, right through to the faded bird song that closes the lovely Epitaph, this album is destined to encapsulate the summer of 2000. A candidate for album of the year. (9/10) CL

APPLIANCE: Six Modular Pieces (Mute) -- Following up their critically acclaimed debut album Manual, Appliance have expanded their sound with greater use of electronics and samplers. Very much in the same ball park as Air, their electronic ambient music is more than worth a listen. (8/10) CL