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So, here's a turnaround. A Pussycat Dolls song which doesn't sound like someone has fallen asleep in The Modern Dictionary Of Hot Celebrity Slang and then read the smeary words back off their own face in the mirror. A Pussycat Dolls song in which Nicole Scherzinger manages to convey an emotion which is not "I am very sexy, but cold-hearted, and I will do very bad things to you (or your man) until I hear snapping noises". And a Pussycat Dolls song which shows a chink in the sex-armour (and no, that's not an innuendo).

Small wonder that Nicole herself has claimed this is her favourite song off the new Dolls album. A bit of range goes a long way, y'know. Especially when it's Nicole's vocal range, and she gets to commit emotionally to what she is singing about. It might just sound like caterwauling to some people (BOY she can go up to some high notes!), but it's right for the story in the song.

Not too sure about the chorus, mind. It seems to interfere with things, especially that silly "linger / fingers" rhyme. But it's nice to come away from a PCD moment not feeling winded by their over-strident plastic showbiz hugeness. So, a cautious 'well done' to everyone concerned.

Now, anyone for a crumpet?

Download: Out now
CD Released: November 24th

(Fraser McAlpine)