Fun? is the second album from the Oxford-based quintet featuring brothers Nick and Mark Cope on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, respectfully. Released in 1993,
Fun? is written entirely by the Cope brothers, along with lead guitarist Nick Burton, and is a jangly slice of British-tinged alterna-pop. The lyrics, mainly dealing with failed relationships, contrast the sweetness and lightweight feel of the music. "Wembley," the opening track, is a joyous pop/rocker despite the all too obvious interjection of soccer crowd cheering during a referential line. The tribal shuffle and blistering guitar on the title track, the country feel of the lilting "House at the Top of the Hill," and the effects-laden guitars on the psychedelic "You Are Here" are all highlights showing the band's musical diversity. Lyrically, things can be morose to the point of annoying as on "Everything Falls Apart." However, the acoustic "Grass," with its sweet harmonies and lyrical resilience, and the gorgeous closer, "All Over Now," more than make up for any shortcomings. ~ Tom Demalon