the evils of cosmetic surgery ("Plastiscine"). In keeping with this downbeat vibe, the band nixes its Bowie and metal fixations, opting for skittering electronic beats, digitally manipulated guitars and a whole lotta reverb. It's a rare rocktronic mix that actually grooves, even if the ride can be a little jittery -- "Special Needs" skips between trip-hop, screeching feedback and Daft Punk disco without a clear destination. But it's already been a long, strange trip -- give them time to find themselves.

KIRK MILLER
(From RS 921, May 1, 2003)