WEVIE STONDER - SURE BEATS LIVING (LP)

In the weird world of Wevie Stonder, things are never straightforward. The four-piece collective headed up by Al Boorman have returned with their first album in 16 years - and one reason it took so long is that they couldn't think of a title. The group are renowned for their outlandish electronics and humorous vocal performances, with a series of treasured releases on Manchester's eminent Skam Records, and their latest album Sure Beats Living ventures into unknown realms. Introducing a host of new characters, tall tales and bizarre scenarios to a musical backdrop as varied as it is striking, the record darts between ambient tranquility, strange soundtracks, bass-heavy beats and emotive R&B.