SINGLES

GAY DAD: Oh Jim (London Records) - The much-hyped Londoners leave their glam-rock tendencies behind with a melodic ballad about some guy called, you guessed it, Jim. This song is quite pleasant, slightly tongue-in-cheek and without too much pretence. Although the lyrics are very simple, this succeeds in being a short, soft guitar pop song which gently builds before ending with a pretty flurry of chords. (8/10)

LIGHTS: Dare To Dream (Back Yard) - This starts off with singer Anthony Cunningham in a rather sleepy, lethargic mood, but as things develop, the mood shifts and anger takes a disturbing hold over the poor lad. Set against the background of slow, melodic guitars, this is not a first effort from this young London outfit. (7/10)

SUPERCHUNK: Hello Hawk (Matador) - Rough-edged guitar pop, loaded with catchy hooks and some very clever string arrangements in the middle, respected US rockers Superchunk prove they can still deliver the goods when required. The forthcoming Come Pick Me Up also promises to be a real rock and roll tonic. (8/10)

DOVE: Don't Dream (ZTT) - A reworking of the old Crowded House song Don't Dream It's Over, Dublin's Dove discover a new winning formula by cheekily adding a rap. The whole thing could have ended a disaster if it wasn't for Hazel Kaneswaren's luscious vocals but as it happens, this has 'hit' etched all over it. (9/10)

ALBUM

THE WEBB BROTHERS: Beyond The Biosphere (MEWS5) - It's unfortunate that they look like The Monkees with Osmond teeth, but some might say it's more unfortunate to be sons of semi-legendary American songwriter Jimmy Webb. Recorded on a shoestring budget, this album has been kept under wraps for far too long, but has now found a UK outlet through Warner. Although the intricacy of the guitars and strong vocal harmonies owes a lot to the American west coast, the brothers manage to chop all parental links through their fascination with lo-fi. The Webb Brothers will either be massive or they will sink without a trace. It could go either way. (8/10)

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.