Light & Magic
Released
Ladytron’s underground breakout with 604 and its associated singles started the group on something of a quick roll, with Light & Magic emerging a year and a half later to a wider audience now well-primed for its icily compelling electronic pop approach. Helen Marnie’s lead singing had already explored various approaches on 604 and that’s further evident here, from the hushed near-whisper of “Seventeen” to the more immediate cold sass of “Blue Jeans.” Other strong highlights include “Nu Horizons” and the pretty, moody stomp of “Start Up Chime.”