TURIN Brakes are an unusual band, and when they arrived on the scene two years ago were hailed as the pioneers of a new form of music -- New Acoustic.

Basically this means that Olly Knights and Gale Paridjanian, the group's frontmen, stick to acoustic guitars and the odd keyboard.

After their first album, The Optimist LP, the pair had a lot to live up to. The album seemed to stick two fingers up at the trend for loud guitars and special effects, and showcased a return to calmer, more dignified music.

Riding their wave of critical and commercial success came bands like Wigan's Starsailor, and Turin Brakes were in danger of getting lost in the music they had helped create.

But Ether Song, their new album, has helped them surface again.

A few of the tracks lack the energy of their debut, and edge away from 'haunting' into dull, but pick your songs right, and you'll find a few that are simply beautiful.

Recent single Pain Killer was the track they chose to launch the album, and as soon as it starts you can tell why.

A funky rhythm, melancholic verse and uplifting chorus help make the song the most unforgettable on the album.

Turin Brakes are well worth a listen.

CD review by Ben Hewes