SO-CALLED "mini" albums arouse suspicion in this reviewer, always wary of the loyal music buyer being needlessly parted from their hard-earned.

So it was a relief when The Coral announced that this, their mini album, or concept album, depending on how you look at it, will be on the shelves at a "special price."

Because it is being deleted on the day of release it may even add some value, who knows? The music itself doesn't scream rip-off. Instead, it has the feel of a tasty dessert after the satisfying main course of last year's Magic And Medicine album.

Track two, Venom Cable, showcased at the band's Barbican gig in December, sounds like The Coral at 5.45am after a night's partying and jamming. Grey Harpoon is a cool, low-fi murmur, Keep Me Company a mournful stroll, Migraine is what it says on the tin - a harsh assault on the senses - while minimalist closer, A Lover's Paradise, is a touch of class.

An enjoyable listen which carries clues for the future and the special price secures its fourth star.

Updated: 10:06 Thursday, January 29, 2004