English indie/alternative magazine, the NME (New Musical Express), as part of their weekly reviews of new releases, put Pet Grief through its paces. Stephen Worthy, a seasoned journalist, gave another one of the NME’s tough, rigorous and thorough reviews. Staying true to the NME philosophy of being inept, the review is not particularly insightful or full of depth, but here it is none-the-less:
“You don’t have to be Cracker* to spot the clues to The Radio Dept’s state of mind when naming their second album ‘Pet Grief’.
The two years since their debut ‘Lesser Matters’ made NME’s Top 10 albums of 2004, these Swedes have changed line-up and been dumped by their label. Is it any wonder, then, that ‘Pet Grief’ is awash with melancholy – a sad haven for lyrics about betrayal, lost love and crushing disappointment?
So how come all this gloom makes such addictive listening? It’s down to the music. Pet Shop Boys (Pet Grief’), New Order (‘A Window’) and My Bloody Valentine (the near joyful fuzz’n’swell of ‘Every Time’) are obvious references. Amid all the darkness, shines a bright light.”
Stephen Worthy
Hmmm..
Not too sure what to make of that. Ooh, also for those that don’t know “Cracker*“, is a reference to a British TV detective drama. Think Sherlock Holmes, but based in the early 90s. That may improve your ability to understand that review.