This third album from alt-rockers Future of the Left sees the Welsh band branching out in exciting new ways and expanding their sound; so much so that it could almost be called a breakthrough. Despite being comprehensively trashed by Pitchfork – a review that earned a fierce rebuttal from singer-guitarist Andy ‘Falco’ Falkous on the band’s website – this synth-infused album full of ominous post-hardcore riffs and dark subject matter seems set to earn them a heap of new fans. The addition of a fourth member in Melbourne’s Julia Ruzicka on bass sees the band fattening their sound and exploring new sonic avenues, while Falco’s lyrics are as sarcastic as ever; “I have looked into the future, everyone is slightly older” on ‘Cosmo’s Ladder’ being the best example. He can be found having a pop at Johnny Depp, Billy Corgan, Russell Brand and Chumbawamba at various points, and clearly really means it. On a side note, there are also some of the best song titles around today: ‘Sheena Is A T-shirt Salesman’, ‘Sorry Dad, I Was Late For The Riots’ and ‘Robocop 4 – Fuck Off Robocop’ being the most interesting. Closer ‘Notes On Achieving Orbit’ is the perfect way to finish, its hugely abrasive riffs and Falco’s throaty screaming making sure the album finishes on a high. At fifty minutes it’s probably a touch on the long side, and the less said about the production the better, but overall this is undoubtedly Future of the Left’s best album to date. (Remote Control Records)