The Beautiful South  - Golddiggas, Headnodders & Pholk Songs

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Hunt down the originals

Sony - 2004 - 44 minutes

In an unusual twist, Paul Heaton et-al have taken a medley of songs from different genres and eras and put their own stamp on them. The result is a diverse collection that sounds good, but, in many cases, is overshadowed by the original versions.

The selection of tracks is wide-ranging, from Blue Oyster Cult's 'Don't Fear the Reaper', to S Club 7's pop hit, 'Don't Stop Moving'. It's an unusual choice of songs, some well-known, others less so, but, with 'You're the One That I Want', for instance, it's difficult to ignore the voices of John and Olivia when they pop into your head. The Beautiful South just can't compete.

With a diverse sound, moving from pop to rock, blues and country, 'Golddiggas...' is a brave move and an enjoyable collection, but you should really hunt down the songs' previous incarnations first.

Katie Moten

Track listing: You're the One That I Want - Livin' Thing - This Will Be Our Year - Ciao - Valentine - Don't Fear the Reaper - This Old Skin - Don't Stop Moving - Till I Can't Take it Anymore - Rebel Prince - Blitzkrieg Bop - I'm Stone in Love with You