The British electro-pop duo of the 80s Pet Shop Boys bring on their first album of new material since the low rated 2006’s ‘Fundamental’. ‘Yes’ their 10^th album is produced by Girls Aloud's team Brian Higgins, songwriter and producer who works under the name Xenomania. Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe who make up nasal sounding Pet Shop Boys bring the same dance/pop/electronica sound with collaborations from guitarist Johnny Marr who plays on several of the 11 newly recorded tracks. The sound is pretty catchy, dance stuff material. Now men in their early 60’s, who began their career in 1986, bring great music regardless of the fact that Neil's voice still sounds the same years later.

The club swing of the opener Love etc is catchy and melodic and one of the main standouts here. The other noteworthy pieces that are interesting are Pandemonium and the operatic ballad Legacy a symphonic piece that is characteristic of the Pet Shop Boys. But the heart of the album lies in songs like King Of Rome, Did you see me coming and The way it used to be the latter being gentle and incredibly beautiful, especially the heartbreakingly delicate vocal delivery from Tennant. ‘All over the world’ samples a takeoff of Tchaikovsky converted into pop dance.

Compared to PSB’s earlier work, the beats here are a bit heavier, more fuller, while the arrangements are kept relatively simpler. The album also sounds fresh, vibrant, and keeping to PSB’s career line. Will fans who once enjoyed their music tune into the new album? For the answer, look at the album cover.

Rating: ****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira