The latest CD release reviewed

HERCULES AND LOVE AFFAIR
Hercules and Love Affair DFA ****

Disco remains a dirty word in some quarters, a scornful shorthand for white suits, platforms and cheesy grooves. Andrew Butler doesn't buy into that perception. As a producer seeped in synth-pop's history, the Hercules and Love Affair kingpin sees and hears magic when the mirrorball starts to spin. On Blind, the album's standout track, Antony Hegarty pouts and preens and poses like the dazzling diva he was probably always destined to be at least once in his life. As this beautiful, alluring song tickles your ears, it's clear that Butler is fully cognisant of the fact that being on a packed dancefloor under the flashing lights can also be the loneliest, saddest place in the world. H&LA is awash with similar dramatic sounds and glittering prizes, so prepare to luxuriate in incandescent grooves, where disco blends seamlessly into house and electropop. www.myspace.com/herculesandloveaffair

Download tracks: Blind, Hercules Theme, Time Will