IF albums two and three baffled buyers of the debut then this outing will throw those who lapped up Supernatural and Black Cherry.

That is to say, while Goldfrapp found global glory by donning their disco boots Tree finds them dodging the typecasting to tender something more in keeping with their stunning debut Felt Mountain.

While this doesn't recall exactly that early electronic balladry it does tone down the faddish glamour of the sequels to restore Alison as a vocalist of huge purity and tenderness and partner Will Gregory a master of instrumentation.

Where Supernature demanded glitterballs Tree favours butterflies, evoking psychedelic, almost hippy qualities to offer something honest, largely restrained and English with single A&E about the most outlandish thing on here. Another brave triumph.

The Feeling, Join With Us (Island)
THIS lot always had a knack for making tunes you know you shouldn't like but creep into your system anyway. They also had the potential to record absolute dross. With their second album the sickly songsmiths have come up with the latter - by the plateful.

Awful lead single I Thought It Was Over is a prime advert for a collection it is a battle to get through. From the sugary melodies to the tacky lyrics this is drivel that sours the ears and turns the stomach. We can only pray the title of the single rings true because this is so very bad.

Sheryl Crow, Detours (A&M)
AFTER a stint of being better known as Mrs Lance 'Tour de France' Armstrong it is good to have the delightful Ms Crow back behind a guitar.

And there's a sense she's come full circle with her sixth studio album, employing Tuesday Night Music Club producer Bill Bottrell to oversee a record that showcases stoical acoustic moments alongside the more commercial, drive-time guitar-driven pop that has shifted Sheryl 10 million albums.

"It's about being forced to wake up," says your host of a collection that has her more outspoken than we're used, inspired by issues personal and well documented and items more global.