Apache Dropout

Bristol duo Apache Dropout's self-titled debut offering, although encompassing some rather diverse influences (drum'n'bass to jazz blues), is a rather meek, acoustic guitar-dominated collection.

Although it probably could have caused a stir back in 1996, it seems a bit outdated and unsure of its niche in the 21st century. However, it does boast some great instrumentation - the funk guitar on 'Silence' and the brilliantly picked 'Snake In The Grass' give the album some much-needed musical diversity.

The greatest problem with this album is that in the midst of perfecting 'ba ba da' choruses and infinite guitar tracks, Apache Dropout seem to have forgotten the necessity of a strong rhythm section in an alternative retro-rock band.

If you like the thought of the New Radicals morphing into Suede with the lo-fi lyrics of a melancholic narrator, this could be your album of the fortnight. If you don't, well, you know where not to go.