As ever, Belle And Sebastian are oozing twee charm and creating intelligent off kilter songs. What makes Dear Catastrophe Waitress such a fantastic album is the sun blessed feel to the whole shebang. These songs are dazzlingly bright and bursting at the seams with pop joy. All of this has happened without sacrificing any of their charm, wit or character.

Despite working with Trevor Horn this album has not been taken over by him, it sounds nothing like Tatu or Frankie Goes To Hollywood, but instead has inherited a certain West Coast smoothness. This is an album that the hardcore fans will take to their own and the uninitiated will be powerless to resist.

Opening the album is the new single (out November 17th) Step Into My Office, Baby which talks workplace sleaze in a catchy Beach Boys style. Dear Catastrophe Waitress should be a must have for you all.

Label: Rough Trade
Release date: 6th October 2003

Tracklist:

1. Step Into My Office, Baby 
2. Dear Catastrophe Waitress 
3. If She Wants Me 
4. Piazza, New York Catcher 
5. Asleep On A Sunbeam 
6. I’m A Cuckoo 
7. You Don’t Send Me 
8. Wrapped Up In Books 
9. Lord Anthony 
10. If You Find Yourself Caught In Love 
11. Roy Walker 
12. Stay Loose