Beep Beep - Enchanted Islands (Saddle Creek) Beginning like a late ‘70s post punk mash-up with Anthony in tow - think angles, straight lines and a femman voice. Terribly hip, of course, though no longer shocking. Eric Ray and Christopher Terry (Beep and Beep). Through the medium of “press release” share their allegiences - the Kraus(s/e) sisters, Alison and Dagmar, Kate Bush, Talk Talk, OMD - and when the laughter abates, we’re not as surprised as we ought to be. Strip away the awkwardness, as they do for much of the record, and we’re transported instantly to a comfortable realm of smooth(ish) alt. pop. Still, terribly pretentious, but accessible to all. And occasionally quite brilliant - but there’s the rub. It’s more fun when they’re being difficult. Intro “I See You!” lurches like a drunken sailor into “Mermaid Struggle”, gawky and beautifully obtuse. Later “Goodbye Sunshine” gets all inappropriate - you’ll dance, but your friends will take you for a lie down. Overall... I am content. www.myspace.com/beepbeep Rob F. Next