Many fans claim they've still to top this album, which is strange as it brought them to the brink of oblivion. After a scrappy, raw debut, it didn't make sense that a 'Final Straw' prototype didn't really sell. Greeted with a shrug, 'When It's All Over…', despite it's subtle greatness, almost forced it's creators to call it a day but, encouraged by his parents, Gary decided to have one more craic, finally releasing a third album arguably no better than it's predecessor. It included a real standout though - 'Run' - and suddenly they were superstars. So, while 'When It's All Over..' did them no favours, it remains an album to be cherished.



Listen to:An Olive Grove Facing the Sea

3. David Holmes - Let's Get Killed

His debut was interesting, if a little messy and unsettled. The follow up soundtracked an adventure in New York, a focused yet trippy collection very much of it's time yet still sounding fresh today. He redefined who he was and made Hollywood take notice.



Listen to:Rodney Yates

4. Divine Comedy - Promenade

Technically his third album, but just like Neil Hannon himself, we don't count 'Fanfare'. Not only did Hannon find form with 'Promenade', he found a signature sound which would define his career. Despite the big, kitchen-sink production, Promenade remains quirky and outrageously geeky. Silly in parts, heart-breaking at times and consistently lush, it's a concept album about two lovers visiting the seaside. But of course!



Listen to:Tonight We Fly

5. Desert Hearts - Hotsy Totsy Nagasaki

With confidence high after a well received debut, Desert Hearts embraced a little ambition. The only thing missing from their equally superb debut was a big pop hook and, with 'Ocean', Desert Hearts put that right. One of many stand out moments, it sums up what makes this arty, interesting, dark and ballsy album more than a little remarkable.



Listen to:Ocean