One of the most exciting bands to emerge from the melee of Welsh groups in 1996, SFA's debut album was a gaudy mix of all out rock, and subtle dance influences. The opening track 'God! Show Me Magic' was the first single, and is a brilliant glam romp. Guitars blaze, ivories are tinkled, and this track sets the pace well. The band moves immediately into a more psychedelic, trippy mood with 'Fuzzy birds' which features a bizarre interface with guitarist Bunf and his pet hamster. This track is listenable but dull. However, next track 'Something For The Weekend' (which disgracefully enjoyed only minor top 40 sucess) is superb. It walks a fine line with lyrics such as 'First time I did it for the hell of it, but it on the back of my tongue and swallowed it..' However the lyrics could extoll the virtues of Bis and the song would still be great. Turn this one up loud.

Next is 'Frisbee' which is a perfect piece of power pop, this is Weezer on acid. Another song which had the potential to be a hit single. 'Hometown Unicorn' another brilliant single (they just keep coming) with a slightly sad, mournful sound, and wierd references galore 'will you ever return me just like Frankie Fontaine?' The mood of the album alters with next track 'Gathering moss.' This is effectively SFA's come down. A beautiful, stirring piece of music it proves SFA are not just a singles band. Utilising an e-bow, cello's and as many strange instruments as possible, lyrics include 'You and I united by itemised bills.' 'Gathering Moss' also proves Gruff Rhys has a superb voice which he puts to use well. 'If You Don't Want Me To Destroy You', again featuring nice orchestral touches, but driven nicely along with guitar is yet another good song. 'Bad Behaviour' is rather pointless, but as a brainless, punky fill-in it is acceptable. 'Hangin' With Howard Marks' and' Long Gone' are both rather laboured affairs. However the final track is another top tune. Energetic, up beat, and cathcy it ends the album on a high. Super Furry Animals have the potential to be huge. It is up to them if they seize this. With guitarist Bunford recently in trouble for drug use, we should all hope they can keep it together. If so, expect another classic second album.

Diolch a chariad!

Reviewed by Steve O'Keeffe