If four letters could sum up Belle and Sebastian, they would be c, u, t and e.
On this, their eighth studio album, the Scottish indie popsters continue their mad habit of producing either the happiest sad songs or the saddest happy songs around.
A subdued joy dominates their sound, as onthe best song, Write About Love, a 60s romp featuring actress Carey Mulligan on backing vocals, and the brilliant I Want the World to Stop, with its impressive blaring trombones and swirling organ.
The appearance of Norah Jones guesting on Little Lou, Ugly Jack, Prophet John jars a bit too much in this hippy folk-pop setting, but on the whole the album is an enjoyable listen. 3.5/5
