As one of the most esoteric groups to emerge from the late '90s, Black Box Recorder have certainly had their moments. A collection of B Sides, cover versions and remixes, this may be, but it's probably the trio's most complete work to date. Characterised by Sarah Nixey's posh schoolgirl vocals and understated electronica, the group are at their best when they deviate from the formula. Breakthrough single 'The Facts Of Life' is given a new lease of life thanks to a remix by The Chocolate Layers which further emphasises the sinister, seedy underbelly of the lyrics. Their knack of inspired cover versions is revealed further with subversive twists on Althea And Donna's 'Up Town Top Ranking' (creepy trip-hop), Bowie's 'Rock'N'Roll Suicide (seductive) and Seasons In The Sun (all joy and innocence replaced with a studied cool). Add to that the bittersweet tunefulness of 'Factory Radio' and 'Jackie Sixty' and a typically English story is just about complete. Including four promo videos from their singles in which Nixey clearly revels as frontwoman can only add extra value to the package.