The Boo Radleys

Continuing along in the same general vein of Kaleidoscope, with production this time from Alan Moulder, the Boos both weave other influences more strongly into their work while starting to stand out just a little bit more from the shoegazing scene they had found themselves categorized in by the U.K. press. Opening cut "The Finest Kiss" actually lets a little bit of New Order sneak through in the opening bass/drum combination, with Carr's shimmering then roaring guitar feedback and Sice's hesitant vocals carrying along as always. "Tortoiseshell" is the majestic keeper from the disc, a marvelously evocative guitar wash alternating with the singing in a perfect balance. It's the best hint that more would come from the Boos in the future and in its own way a precursor to the similar alternation between accessibility and noise on "Lazarus." "Bluebird" and "Naomi" are both a touch more generic but still fine, with the latter showing a distinct My Bloody Valentine influence in Carr's queasy tremolo work. ~ Ned Raggett, All Music Guide