You know that bit in "The Hitch Hikers Guide To The Galaxy" where Ford is describing to Arthur that according to the aforementioned Guide, Earth is described as "mostly harmless"?? This infuriates Arthur as, he is an Earthling, and it is only natural for him to stick up for his planet. But Earth, in the grand scheme of things, IS "Mostly Harmless". A similar thing happens when you listen to this Birdie record.

Because although lead singer Deborah Wykes would never admit it, this record, and Birdie in general, are "Mostly Harmless". Made up of St.Etienne's old backing-band and the lovely Debs herself (looks extraordinarily like Sonya from Echobelly, for those taking notes), Birdie make possibly the most inoffensive records heard in years. Deborah's Cracknell-esqu vocals glide over guitarist Paul Kelly's glistening acoustic (And sometimes...Electric!!) jangles.

On 'Sidewalk', one of their better tracks, the mood is distinctly summery, a record designed for walking around Camden on a warm Sunny day. Something which I did today, funnily enough. It's a record to be played at a million middle-class dinner parties, but never to be remarked upon.

'Sidewalk' has a rare purity and a tranquil loveliness that renders it a sleepy delight, if one doomed to anonymity.

Spare a thought for Birdie.