The Beautiful South may very well be the best-kept secret in the States. Although very popular in Europe, The South never caught on in the States. It's a shame because this group is loaded with talent. "Miaow" is probably the most accessible CD they have produced to date. In typical South fashion cynical lyrics are mixed with upbeat tempos. The lyrics are at times disturbing and always thought provoking. I would describe the South's overall character as almost theatrical, with gorgeous harmonies by the talented Jacqueline Abbott and in your face lyrics by lead singer/writer Paul Heaton. The songs on "Miaow" range from the sensitive "Prettiest Eyes" to the disturbing "Mini-Correct", with a theme along the lines of "A Clockwork Orange". This CD is a MUST HAVE for your progressive music collection, it is in fact addicting and worthy of a goosebumps generating five stars.