ATHLETE were one of the pioneers of soft-rock when they burst onto the scene in 2003 with their first album Vehicles and Animals. With songs such as You Got the Style and El Salvador becoming hits across the globe, a second album, Tourist, quickly followe

ATHLETE were one of the pioneers of soft-rock when they burst onto the scene in 2003 with their first album Vehicles and Animals.

With songs such as You Got the Style and El Salvador becoming hits across the globe, a second album, Tourist, quickly followed, also to rapturous acclaim.

Unfortunately for them, their third CD, Beyond the Neighbourhood, enters a market packed full of ­Coldplay and Snow Patrol clones, and as such may struggle to have as much impact.

Nevertheless, there is plenty here to keep ­hardened fans happy. Recent single Hurricaine is a belting track, while It's Not Your Fault, and The Outsiders also feature the band's trademark snagging melodies.

If you're already a fan of Athlete you certainly won't be disappointed by Beyond the Neighbourhood. Just don't expect anything revolutionary.

MATTHEW GOODING