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It took them a while, though. This Gift was released over three years ago, during which time they've been forgotten. And Mirror Mirror is not obvious instant success. But given time, as with the best records, it reveals a wonderfully stark energy; all sinewy shadowplay, stripped-back space and a compelling sexuality - and not of the MTV groin-grinding variety. Principal singer Adele Bethel calls it a "sexy evil". The undercarriage of post-punk dance is also thrilling, and less a homage to the band's 80s teenage memories than a springboard for reinvention. On top, guitarist Scott Paterson is also singing more, re-instating the boy/girl dynamic implicit in the band name that was largely retired for This Gift; driven by both valiant voices, the opening Silver Spell oozes sensuality, but like a coiled spring.
To give some idea of their about-face, Mirror Mirror enlists the help of JD Twitch (aka Keith McIvor) of local club legends Optimo Music - it's his first album production and his understanding of rhythm proves a more empathic ear than Butler's. With his help, the band's admiration of Siouxsie and the Banshees, Joy Division, The Cure and Gang of Four doesn't feel forced, and give or take Ink Free's clear reflection of Fever Ray's ominous presence, Mirror Mirror is unique for these times.
Ink Free concerns writer's block (just as Orion addresses the band's collective droop after they made This Gift, and Bee Song addresses depression). But Bethel is as interested in external demons, from serial killers to witchcraft to Angela Carter's menstrual fairytales. There's a dark, as well as sexy, evil in these songs, which matches the music's haunting aura. Try Rose Red, Don't Look Now or Axed Actor (which bizarrely cops the same key changes as Steam's bubblegum-happy 60s hit Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye) for full impact. There won't be a more sexily evil record released this year.
--Martin Aston
Find more music at the BBC This link will take you off Amazon in a new window
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The album drips with menace, songs such as Axed Actor (concerning the Black Dahlia murder of the 1940s) bringing out the feel of the dark side of glamour that the band do so well. Overall, it's likely to be - as with all three of their previous albums - my favourite record of this year, and may well be the band's strongest collection to date.
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