SPRING ALBUM ROUNDUP : ON THE LEVEL

“WORLD MACHINE.” Level 42. Polydor.

Though the title suggests a political consciousness, Level 42’s third album focuses on love relationships--and it’s all been heard before. The British quartet saves its imagination for its jazz-flavored pop, using keyboard effects and strong rhythms to create several exotic, hook-filled numbers. Level 42’s strength is the team of bassist Mark King and drummer Phil Gould. Their potent rhythm lines sometimes carry songs where very little attention is paid to the melodies. The simply structured songs are fleshed out with layered harmonies and sharp arrangements, producing an overall charm.