Having won critical and commercial acclaim with the drum and bass-lite pop of their platinum-selling debut album, Resist, and then alienated most of those fans with the darker, guitar-driven sound of follow-up, Kokopelli, it’s been quite a wait to what Bristol’s Kosheen would do with what might be regarded as their ‘difficult third album’. In fact, it’s a delay that’s been extended by label changes that saw this album released in Europe back in March, but only now officially available in a UK edition.

As often happens when a bold new direction proves less than entirely successful, Damage could be represented as a cross between the trio’s previous albums. While cynics may accuse the band of compromising their musical growth to remain true to fans’ expectations, the synthesis could also be seen as effectively incorporating the best of both styles into a sound that is truly the band’s own. Indeed, it’s one that suits the band well – electronic, but not really dance, borrowing heavily no doubt from their local trip-hop scene, though at times sounding more like The Gathering.

After waiting an extra six months, the band’s domestic fans will no doubt be particularly keen to know what advantages this release has over imports. Well, aside from the original cut of ‘Guilty’, which is hardly different from the European version, this release boasts two UK bonus tracks, ‘Professional Friend’ and ‘Analogue Street Dub’ which, to be honest, are pleasant enough additions but certainly not among highlights such as the title track, single ‘Overkill,’ ‘Chances’ or ‘Not Enough Love’. If you haven’t already got it, then its UK release is the perfect excuse to rectify that.

(4/5)