The Long Blondes - Weekend Without Make Up

The Long Blondes are yet another export of Sheffield's ludicrously prolific music scene. However, they've something about them beyond the wry take on life's day-to-day idiosyncrasies, and they have a female singer. This latest single sees the 'Blondes tackle relationship issues, with Kate Jackson's dulcet tones adding a touch of the Human League to a nice enough tune which harks back to early REM. There's nothing too exciting here but it is a little different; although the kitsch sound and sentiments get a little grating after the first couple of spins. [Jon Seller]