Although Belgian, the music of brothers David and Stephen Dewaele draws more from US alternative pop than that of their fellow countrymen Deus. Instead of using The Velvet Underground and Beach Boys as classic reference points, Soulwax sound charmingly like Pavement. The band temper their lack of originality with an open-minded use of studio technology, especially on Saturday's laidback groove and the Chemicals-style breakbeats of Too Many DJs. But Soulwax are just as comfortable with classic power pop. Although their writing lacks a little impact, the band fit their music to suit their songs. The title track rolls along as tunefully as Sweden's Wannadies, while When Logic Dies relies more on its gorgeously melancholic strings. Thinking of the album's title, you can't help but wonder if the mild-mannered brothers refused to restrict their music against the advice of others. This band are halfway to paradise.

by Chris Mugan