Simian Mobile Disco - Temporary Pleasure

Simian Mobile Disco return with a more star-studded affair than their debut 'Attack Decay Sustain Release'. On second effort 'Temporary Pleasure', the dance duo - Jas Shaw and James Ford - have drafted in a larger list of vocalists to give their analogue-crafted dance an elevated edge. Hopping on board for the ride (but not limited to) are Gruff Rhys of Super Furry Animals, Beth Ditto of Gossip, Alexis Taylor of Hot Chip, and Yeasayer's Chris Keating.

It's these guest-featuring songs which are the clear choice moments from the pair, overshadowing their vocal-free offerings. And by combining diverse vocals with their stabbing acid synths, rib-crushing bass and booming beats, they remain one-step ahead of the competition. The cameos also make SMD appealing and credible to an indie crowd, without losing any of their dance sensibilities.

Highlights are the Detroit favouring 'Cruel Intentions' (made more charming by the soulful vocals of Ditto), the Italo-disco savvy 'Off The Map', the electro-hip hop flavours of 'Turn Up The Dial', and the Kraut-rhythms of Rhys' 'Cream Dream'. Out of place on their pop opus are '10,000 Horses Can't Be Wrong', which recalls their earlier sound, and the clumsy minimalism of the wonky 'Ambulance'.

Altogether a more rounded effort than their 2007 debut. Rather than a collection of songs built for the live arena, 'Temporary Pleasure' has a true album feel to it.