Bell X1

Bloodless Coup Belly Up Records***

Where do Bell X1 go next? After various high-profile US TV appearances but no real international breakthrough, the trio must be wondering what they're doing wrong. Their fifth album is safe enough to sate their established fanbase, although releasing Hey Anna Lenaas a teaser track was a sneaky move. Its glitchy time signatures may have evoked comparisons with Radiohead, but most of Bloodless Coupis good, wholesome pop-rock that's far from groundbreaking fare. Velcrotwangs beautifully with understated synthesiser, while 4 Minute Mileand Built to Lasthave their own distinct charms, David Geraghty taking lead vocals on the latter. However, it's the chic, shady groove of the excellent Haloumithat suggests if Bell X1 were looking for a new direction, they'd do worse than following the mysterious path that that song proposes. See bellx1.com

Download tracks: Haloumi, Velcro