* * 1/2 Gene, “Drawn to the...

* * 1/2 Gene, “Drawn to the Deep End,” A&M.; This London outfit’s lush and orchestral second album employs everything from choir-perfect harmonies to sexy string arrangements, from atmospheric Mellotrons to swirling Hammond organs. The cool wit of “New Amusements” and the insatiable torment of “Fighting Fit” kick it off well, but after a while Martin Rossiter’s voice feels warbling and unreal, and the sound atrophies. This high-vaulting work just barely misses its mark.

Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two stars (fair), three stars (good) and four stars (excellent).