Too many of the bands that sprang from the late-'80s rave scene in Manchester, England, delivered little more than the quick buzz of the drugs that fueled that environment. But with this fivesome, the ecstasy was furthered by raw talent and impressive musical ambition. In a novel move, Clint Boon treated his Farfisa organ less like a gimmick than an actual instrument, and Tom Hingley didn't just moan, he sang. Now on their fourth album, they're still intriguing – echoing psychedelia in rich, trippy density but coming down to earth with irresistible pop hooks. "Plutoman," "Lovegrove" and "Saturn 5" especially dazzle, but all of Devil Hopping exhilarates. (RS 682)

PAUL EVANS