Paul

Well, the 'surprise me' feature for the Queue is proving its value.

For the first half of the album I was thinking 'this is fine enough but I probably won't revisit'. Then it really got into its stride, and made me want to listen to it again through as a whole again. I'm a fan.

I think this review actually describes what makes it good though...!

I've found myself coming back to this more than any other album of The Smile's, so that must be a good thing. I think @postmark's positive comments probably ensured I gave it a little more attention than I usually would; I'm glad I did though. As to what I like about it... I couldn't tell you.

(But it sometimes feels too slow for my liking, depending on my mood, so could easily slip down to a 3 when I'm feeling impatient)

I had been putting off listening to this because I feared it wouldn't live up to the brilliance of PAINLESS. I needn't have worried.

While it may not have quite the same impact as PAINLESS's high points, it is still a tremendous album. It starts with energy and pace but quickly settles into a record that feels reflective and considered. It may be less catchy and poppy, but it's an album that gently envelops you, and I like that. Bonus points for the toms on Mutations.