Parenthood hasn't brightened Emma Pollock and Alun Woodward's outlook at all, but this is brilliant news for a band who are masters of melancholy. Hate continues the weep-worthy tradition of The Great Eastern, wrapping its misery in beauty with luscious string-laden melodies. Lyrically, it's heart tugging but razor-sharp--check out the bittersweet "Coming in from the Cold" ("Everybody's waiting for the big surprise / but no one will notice when it does arrive / so send it on") or the cutting "Hate Is All You Need". Misplaced ambition and emotional entrapment are the predominant themes but despite the dejection, Hate is elegant rather than angsty. With its clever wordplay and uplifting orchestral touches, it makes misery absolutely savoury. --Leslie Gilotti
