Goodbye
Like Saint Etienne and Deee-Lite before them, Dubstar specialize in capturing the perfect pop moment. The British trio's domestic debut, Goodbye, is highlighted by its celestial lead-off track "Stars." Built out of sultry dance floor beats, shimmering synths, and a heart-melting melody, it serves as the logical bridge between pop classicism and trendy club rhythms. Likewise, songs like the flamenco guitar accented "No More Talk" and the tumbling "Just a Girl She Said" offer euphoric variations on the same formula. Unfortunately,Goodbyealso proves that mixing these elements can be a precarious business, as there are several casualties that litter the otherwise impressive collection. Still, it is hard to resist the maudlin, runny mascara sentiments of singer Sarah Blackwood.--Aidin Vaziri