The endorsement of British Sea Power shouldn't do the career of Czech group The Ecstasy Of Saint Theresa any harm at all. It seems their patronage is at least partly responsible for the release of this new compilation. Indeed, the final track featured is Ecstasy's own doleful version of 'Lovely Day Tomorrow'. Looking back through their history, they have talent to spare of their own. Early efforts were focused on the early-90s trend for shoegazer sounds; of which the blank vocals and effects-saturated guitars of 'Square Wave', 'Trance' and 'Fluidum' prove that they were on level terms with the Rides and My Bloody Valentines of this world. By 1994's 'Her Eyes Have It' the will to experiment took over, taking into account pastoral, ambient soundscapes whilst the shifting patterns of 'Vacuum Blow' also impress. Then there's a four-year gap after which only core member Jan Muchow remained. The inevitable new direction incorporated a more pop-centric approach which arguably marks their most satisfying period. The trip-hop pop of 'I'm (Not Really) Optimistic' will delight anyone who remembers Icelandic group Ragga And The Jack Magick Orchestra. An excellent story, then, of a group evolving into new styles and doing so with great effect. Long may the ecstasy continue!