The Delays "Valentine (Freeform 5 Mix)" [CD only]

CLICKMUSIC.COM: There's a magic formula to good music, and not enough bands know it. You can turn a good song in to a great one simply by sticking a load of interesting electronica onto it; beepy noises and buzzing boxes of fun - every little helps.

Delays have paid attention. 'Lost In A Melody' was a step in the right direction - a sublime slice of eighties pop music. 'Valentine' is even better.

At some point in the last few months, Greg Gilbert and co have swallowed Donna Summer and the Pet Shop Boys (hold on a second... - Ed). Kicking off with some sublime electrobeats and falsetto vocals straight from heaven, stabbing guitars, impossible melodies and sweeping synth lines soon join in. Somewhere inbetween dance and indie without ever becoming as embarassing as Kasabian, 'Valentine''s appeal is instantaneous.

This is what could happen if every band listened to Girls Aloud. We wish they would.