JUST before general release this was the BBC's album of the week yet various press critics have been decidedly lukewarm.

Overall, I enjoyed this immensely but with provisos including the banality of some of the lyrics on songs such as opening track, Truth. The electronic musical wizard, who has been very much the outsider despite 30-plus years in the business, still has much to offer.

Liars is a 'concept' album based on the lies we tell every day to smooth our way through life to the whoppers told by the rich and powerful to shape our views. The 14 tracks of Liars are an excellent showcase for Rundgren's multi-instrumental skills. It's easy listening and reaches stunning heights on numbers such as Afterlife, Flaw, Stood Up and Past. Faithful fans will welcome this and he is sure to win new ones as the grapevine starts buzzing. In truth, Liars won't be a waste of money.

Updated: 08:48 Thursday, April 22, 2004