Guitar effects have been an integral part of the music scene since the mid-80s and whilst bands such as My Bloody Valentine, Jesus And Mary Chain and Kitchens Of Distinction have earned their own places in this rich history there are many others who struggle to grasp the concept of melody. On this score, The Workhouse are well ahead of the game fitting snugly between the aforementioned behemoths of rock and modern post-rock offerings such as Mogwai and Godspeed! You Black Emperor. 'Peacon' and 'John Noakes' are howling gale force-type records which are countered by the experimental centrepiece 'Stoichkov' that is juxtaposed itself with the acoustic 'Never Kill Your Dreams'. Farewells to Bolton Wanderers players are an unlikely topic for the sadness-tinged epics 'Goodbye Gudni' and 'Ricketts' but whilst the subject matter may be questionable the music quality never is, particularly when the huge wind-tunnel type melody of 'Trading Estate' takes centre stage with the apocalyptic 'The End Of The Pier' making for a powerful and thrilling finale. This is right up there with the best of the loud ethereal bands.