Science & Nature

Strangely Science & Nature starts off at its nadir with the uninspired 'Zorro' then steadily trundles uphill, through leisurely-paced 'The Last Of The Great Navigators'. The momentum increases with 'Mudslide', on which these chirpy London chappies manage to sound almost angry, but it's back to cruise control for 'One Speed Gearbox'.

The band really burst into life with the boisterous rev of 'Blood Bubble' - although it's telling that the best track on the album is an instrumental. Mark Morriss' vocals may lack intensity, but the ensuing songs sustain a steady, happy-go-lucky charm, particularly apparent on the winsome 'Keep The Home Fires Burning'.

While Science & Nature is unlikely to rock anybody's world, The Bluetones certainly seem to have plenty of juice left in them.