After only one album in their recorded history - that being 'The Plateau Phase - it is quite a surprise to see a group release a follow-up twenty years later. Yet this is exactly what Crispy Ambulance have done and it's almost as if they've never been away. Boasting the original line-up (a rarity in this day and age of comebacks) they have a sound which is very much their own and barring a few electronic interludes (the bubbling effect that provides background hints at the modern age on 'Step Up!') this music firmly has its roots in 1982. This is man machine music made for men, with no recourse for melody but full of punishing rhythms and riffs, all topped off by Alan Hempsall's trademark growl, which sounds more confident than ever now. Though this recording is a little one-dimensional (no mysterious instrumentals this time) the gruelling stretch from 'Metal Grey' to 'Parallax' is an admirable and compelling centrepiece. Furthermore, the second-rate Joy Division tag that has dogged so many Factory bands, should finally be laid to rest.