Grinderman 2, Mute ***

It doesn't seem like three years since Grinderman's debut – perhaps that's a sign of its endurance and innovation as a record. Grinderman 2provides more of the same vicious vocal barbs, lyrical sleaze and scuzz-fringed riffs, courtesy of Mr Cave and co, but in truth, it's not half as explosive as its predecessor. Perhaps the band's decision to make a more "serious" record this time around is to their detriment. Certainly, there are some fantastically feral numbers here ( Worm Tameris especially aurally pungent), but the intensity of these songs is almost too much to absorb in one sitting. Just as well the comparatively poppy Palaces of Montezumatempers the dominant murkiness somewhat – but overall, Grinderman 2seems like more of a continuation than a progression for an undoubtedly compelling band.

See grinderman.com

Download tracks: Worm Tamer, Palaces of Montezuma