
'Hello Young Lovers' was released in 2006, and revisited the piano and orchestral arrangements of 'Lil' Beethoven' with more rock guitar and drums. There is also an emphasis on vocal arrangements, all performed by Russell and increasingly complex. The songs are almost all over four minutes long, and this seems to allow them the breathe more without being too indulgent, and they are the usual mix of angular charm. It seems a more confident record than 'Lil' Beethoven', or perhaps the band felt less obliged to play the 'popular' game, understanding that it didn't matter so much any more. It's operatic without being overblown, with the same dry humour that describes all their work. Standout tracks: 'Dick Around' juxtaposes opera with low humour and a crunchy metal riff; '(Baby, Baby) Can I Invade Your Country' has, as unlikely as it may seem, an air of Ministry about it. 'Rock Rock Rock' isn't. It's another fifty minute charming diversion that goes to unexpected places, including rather genteel sounding bayou.