I used to like this Aussie duo when they were just starting out. Their own brand of pop music was a breath of fresh air at the time. Sadly, they didn't stay together long. Darren Hayes, the voice of the group went solo. This CD is the so called Deluxe Edition of 'Affirmation.'

The title song is a gripping piece of pop music with some really intelligent lyrics, where Hayes sings about believing in karma and getting what you dish out to others. The best line is 'beauty magazines promote low self esteem.' The lyrics are engaging and there is a story being told, but at the same time, the song is bursting with hooks and a chorus so catchy you might have to steady yourself!

You can calm yourself with 'I Knew I Loved You' which is basically 'Truly Madly Deeply' part two. Hayes has never sounded so sensual as he breathes life in the tried and tested love song and every word positively aches with a sense of longing.

'Crash And Burn' is a mid tempo affair with rather bleak lyrics, but again handled with dignity, thanks to a controlled vocal from Hayes. The song is all about the pitfalls of relationships and is presented in a sophisticated and believable fashion. For something more lively, 'The Animal Song' is a right treat, with an almost tribal rhythm and a feisty chorus in which they sing about wanting to live like cannibals. It is very different from their ballads and is fit to burst with peaktime hooks.

'The Lover After Me' is a a tender and emotionally wrought track which starts in an almost ethereal manner before unfolding into a spectacle of soothing pad sounds and beautiful sweeping melodies, as Hayes pours his heart out.

My final recommendation is 'Two Beds And A Coffee Machine' which benefits from a startling piano solo before unleashing a warm vocal. There is a stripped down feel to the track which allows the emotion to shine through.

Not quite sure what the difference is between this and the normal album release, both have the same 12 tracks. I think this is just very rare. It is a fine polished album though and worth inspecting.