Flood Bank by little known English post-punk band The Lines is a reissue of sorts. Compiling two albums in one with all but one track from Therapy and Ultramarine, released in 1981 and 1982 respectively, making it onto this release from Acute Records. Neither album did particularly well commercially originally, as they got lost in the myriad of bands back in that era so Flood Bank, put together with the help of vocalist and guitarist Rico Conning aims to put that right.'Come Here' kicks off proceedings with echoing vocals and a tribal beat and 'Stripe' showcases a funky bass as the production creates the instantly recognisable '80s sound. Current bands like The Rapture would fall over themselves to make songs as good as this. 'Airlift' carries on in the same vein, but with added brass and an actual chorus. 'Blow a Kiss', brings the tempo down a notch or two and is one my favourites on the record. The vocals are soft and delicate, accompanied by a gorgeous guitar and intricate drumming - sadly  followed up by 'Instincticide' which is just horrible. Similarly with next track 'Bucket Brigade', the overly long outro feels like it goes on for hours with the bass guitar sounding like an annoying fly buzzing around your head. At least the aptly named 'Tunnel Party' is bags of fun leaving the bass in the background for once and sounds like it should be played in the Hacienda, though 'Ursa Major' brings the mood down and could be the soundtrack for the credit crunch. 'The Landing' is ponderous and delicate much like 'Blow a Kiss' and is another highlight.  The problem with this record is that it is highly inconsistent, a couple of tracks will get you thinking you've stumbled across a lost gem but then a highly irritating load of rubbish will lay one on you and snap you out of that preposterous notion. Perhaps with a bit of backing and appreciation back in the day, their third album could have been a genuine piece of quality. While Flood Bank should see them quite rightly receive some belated recognition, I doubt it will put them alongside their peers. 65%Acute Records