Kaleidoscope World
This CD expansion of a compilation of early singles and EP cuts by New  Zealand's best known alt-pop band has a couple of flat spots. But both the 18- track length and the generally robust health of Martin Phillipps' songwriting  make it a generous offer that's hard to refuse. Phillipps was actually to do  more consistent work onBrave WordsandSubmarine Bells, butKaleidoscope Worldfinds him working out early versions of his continuing  obsessions--death, the environment--in a fascinating manner. It also includes  one of his all-time greats, "I Love My Leather Jacket," a gorgeous  rocker about the premature loss of a friend.--Rickey Wright