‘The Shortwave Set’ are an alternative pop band who have created a type of music they describe as “Victorian Funk”… although “Victorian Bunk” would perhaps be a more apt description, writes Davina Richards.

Formed in 2003 they have toured with the likes of Goldfrapp, Rilo Kiley and Gnarles Barkley and have in the past achieved album of the week on both BBC radio One Show and in The Times.

Surprising then that their latest album ‘Replica Sun Machine’ is so dire. The first song is immediately disappointing - with a tuneless background and over-simplistic lyrics, any song that has the line ‘because everyone knows that a dog dressed in clothes is still a dog’ is unlikely to ever be a hit.

‘No Social’ has been compiled on a shoestring budget- and it shows. With clashing, tuneless rhythms, the songs go from bad to worse. The second track is slightly more bearable until a somber voice is heard over the instrumental, turning the listener off.

The Shortwave may have acquired critical acclaim in the past but unfortunately with their latest album they have created a medley of unharmonious sounds and moods that, if it were an item of clothing, would not look out of place in Johnathan Ross’ wardrobe.

Do you agree with Davina? The band's received massive support from several big names and for this album collaborators included Danger Mouse, Van Dyke Park and Velvet Underground's John Cale. Have a listen and let us know what you think!

Visit www.myspace.com/theshortwaveset