Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

A new line up, a new label and a new sound, Mayfair Laundry deliver a second album that sharpens up the band's style leaving behind some of the rougher edges. Thankfully they've dropped the ska pretences and incorporated the loops here and there and found a more cohesive sound. Yipee! "New And Improved" indeed! The core of the band is guitarist Paul Dexter and singer Kim Sipus and immediately it's clear that everything has gelled for the second album. The edgy title track immediately sets the pace and the other tracks continue that edge, especially the power poppy "I Can See You" and the vibey "Ticket To The Moon". One brave new move is the cover version of the George Harrison classic, "Here Comes The Sun", given a new century treatment without losing any of the pure joy of the original. Always thought that Mayfair Laundry were hugely underrated and I'm happy to say that with this second album they are finally beginning to deliver. Definitely one to watch.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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