Strange how a band that creates music as "Mmm, nice!" as Lamb's can attract such enmity. Tricky issued threats against them for bandwagon jumping, while the consensus seems to be that they're mere coat-tailers to Massive Attack and the missing-in-action Portishead. Lamb's third album sees them floating above such worldly concerns - almost literally. The shivering electro-folk of Gabriel is about getting it on with an angel, while Small sees singer Louise Rhodes peering down upon God's creation from on high. Lamb have finally perfected the trip hop/classical fusion they discovered on their career-high Gorecki, though the beatific sumptuousness of their sound can be overwhelming. Paradise is all very well, but Lamb might think about getting their hands a little dirty every now and then.
rated: * * * (out of 5)
review: John Mullen
nicked from 'Q', dated November 2001
