Stead frequents The Hat & Fan, a chain pub boasting all the character of a Z-list celebrity. On the melancholic 'Last Orders For Gary Stead', singer Sarah Cracknell externalises Gary's inner monologue: "It's only half nine, there’s time, time for drinking." He guzzles a fair few does our Gaz.

For all the doom and gloom, TFTH's as uplifting as a shaft of sunlight on a grey winter day. Cracknell hits brighter notes on the Euro-discoesque 'Lightning Could Strike Twice', the pure pop of  'A Good Thing', and the party anthem 'Stars Above Us'. They’ll put a smile on your face and dance in your shoes.

In 1994, Damon Albarn roped in the cor-blimey, lovely-jubbly Phil Daniels for 'Parklife'. 11 years later, Saint Etienne gave everybody’s favourite Romany, David Essex, a call. Essex portrays one half of a feuding couple on ‘Relocate’. He’ll miss his mates if he and the missus move to the country.

Cracknell's character, the missus, is keen on greener pastures, insisting: "We need some open space, we need a chance of pace." The track’s a hoot as Dave sings in the fashion of an Oliver cast member. Played by ‘Laughing-Gnome’-era David Bowie.

Turnpike House is what the Americans refer to as a skyscraper. Despite such status, the album named after this tower block dwarfs the actual building. And people will be listening to Tales From Turnpike House long after demolition day.

(4½/5)

Release Date: 13 June 2005

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