THE Music's frontman Robert Harvey predicted that they may lose fans because of their second album - but would also gain some new ones.

He isn't wrong, but may find more deserters than converts because of its altogether blander, noisier direction. Gone is their distinctive dance-rock, nu-baggy style in favour of loud, bloated riffs that have been done a lot better elsewhere. Simply aping the likes of Led Zeppelin - like on the title track - has become a tiresome trend among rock's new breed. Frequently Harvey's lyrics descend into earnest claptrap, as on single Freedom Fighters, in which he embarrassingly bleats: "Dance for the freedom, fathers of the world". But it's not all rubbish. Bleed From Within is too catchy for words and Into The Night reminds us of their potential. A wasted opportunity.

Updated: 08:39 Thursday, October 07, 2004