A BAND which has been skimming under the radar for some time, 23 is Blonde Redhead's seventh LP, and it's easy to see why they haven't set the world on fire.

While Japanese singer Kazu Makino's unusual voice gives the band a distinctive sound, capped by synthesisers and strings, 23 is a hit-and-miss affair.

My Impure Hair and Spring And By Summer Fall are highlights but, at times, the experimental nature of this record wears thin. When it's good, it's great and when it's bad, it's horrid.

On the whole, however, there are enough quality tunes in this ten-tracker to merit a listen.

Just make sure your finger is always poised on fast forward.