The oddly named German quartet
Celebrate the Nun specializes in dark yet danceable synth pop, and the band scored a couple of U.S. danceclub hits with "She's a Secretary" and "Will You Be There." Both tunes are included on
Celebrate the Nun's 1988 debut,
Meanwhile, and the rest of the album offers a pleasant mix of catchy, lightweight synth arrangements and gothic overtones (think
Xymox). There are hooks aplenty on
Meanwhile, and member Britt Maxime contributes female vocals that add a nice touch to many of the tunes, particularly on "She's a Secretary" and "Maybe Tomorrow" (she even sings lead on the
Book of Love-ish ballad "Cry No More"). Unfortunately, the bland, robotic vocal style of leader
H.P. Baxxter somewhat undermines the band's strengths. Still,
Meanwhile should please fans of the genre. ~ William Cooper