WHAT'S THE STORY? Enduring Mancunian stars churn out ninth album of cryogenically-frozen indie. Boasts likeable reggae/funk edge.

TO BE HONEST: The Charlatans are the surprise package mum. A passable looker in her prime, she's the one who still looks okay after all her mates have deteriorated into gnarly, bucktoothed wilderhags.

WHICH PROBABLY MEANS: The Charlatans gently preserve their upbeat swagger in moisturiser.

LISTEN OUT FOR: 'Muddy Ground'. Vintage Charlatans spookiness. 'For Your Entertainment'. Burgess yelps like someone's just stamped on his foot.

FREEBIES: We've got 5 of these great albums to give away! Just email your details to webmaster.maxim@dennis.co.uk and we'll enter you into our giveaway draw. Closing date: 27 April 2006