Best Kept Secrets [CD + DVD]

Best Kept Secrets is in chronological order and highlights the slight changes in direction that occurred in each period. Tunes such as "B-line" and "Bonfire" are more rhythmic than their fractal predecessors yet dirty in comparison to the smooth, almost soulful "Stronger" and "Please" from their latter years. Although the album gets comfier and more worthy of the "chillout" tag as it progresses, it's clear that two things remain consistent throughout: Rhodes' vocals remain beautiful and Barlow's production always does enough to keep it left of centre. --David Trueman