The Beta Band
Assessment

Possibly the most underrated band (or perhaps just plain unremembered) in Britain today, the Beta Band return with a homage to their old ways.

Despite second album 'Hot Shots' - a brilliant mish mash of hip hop beats and tripped-out vocals and effects - being their most consistent body of work, they've opted to look closely back at their first three EPs. Except 'Assessment' shows seven years of progress musically and also in the studio. Initially built around a two-chord Bunnymen-esque guitar phrase and lolling bass, it combines the inimitable psychedelic sing-song qualities that the band use to such good effect before slowly unhinging itself into a three-part mini-symphony.

Of course, it makes no sense as a single, but as a calling card for their imminent return, it's a notable statement. Welcome back, Beta Band, We have missed you, when we think about it...