Never get too excited over a band because of one outstanding single. This quartet could be one of the best new bands in England, or they might be run of the mill. A first single in 1995, "Polly's Domain," showed promise; a second 1995 single, "Slugs," had exciting moments; and then, pow! "Now That You Know Me" was one of 1996's songs of the year, an amazing synthesis of boring Brit-pop's typical tenants, late-'60s song values, and post-punk power (it's rare to offer both at once). Where the other bands rip-off and offer paled imitations, however, "Now That You Know Me" (and its two B-sides as well -- one of which is even mixed by the amazing Hugh Jones!) storms, on a twin-guitar thunder that admits the stomp of glam, the time-warp expansion of psychedelia, and mostly the sonic might of crunching pop. Plus a strong vocal by leader Daniel Young, who assuredly belts a melody so sharp, so dripping, it's impossible to strip from your mind for weeks. Colossal! ~ Jack Rabid