's album debut is a brilliant, surprisingly natural synthesis of claustrophobic spy soundtracks, dark breakbeats inspired by frontman 's love of hip-hop, and a vocalist ( ) in the classic confessional singer/songwriter mold. Beginning with the otherworldly theremin and martial beats of hits an early high with a post-modern torch song driven by a sample. The chilling atmospheres conjured by 's excellent guitar work and 's turntables and keyboards prove the perfect foil for , who balances sultriness and melancholia in equal measure. Occasionally reminiscent of a torchier version of , provides a clear focus for these songs, with and company behind her laying down one of the best full-length productions ever heard in the dance world. Where previous acts like had attracted dance heads in the main, crossed over to an American, alternative audience, connecting with the legion of angst-ridden indie fans as well. Better than any album before it, merged the pinpoint-precise productions of the dance world with pop hallmarks like great songwriting and excellent vocal performances. ~ John Bush