When I first heard this in 1997, my first thoughts were: "Hmm... A bit of Portishead here, a lot of Stereolab there". It sure sounded great, but I didn't find it particularly original, but Broadcast are a deceptive bunch. The difference is in the detail. Although it is a collection of early singles and EPs, each track on Work And Non Work builds a larger portrait of the band. There is so much going on under the candy-colored pop surface that one listen will never be enough to reveal the album's true nature. It needs to be devoured in order to bloom. I can see why some might not get hooked, it is a strange record, yet I find it to be such a rewarding album for those who are willing to delve deeper into the Broadcast sound. The group are not afraid to show where they come from, yet they inject such a powerful dose of their own touch that the comparisons become obsolete. The opening trio of songs are favorites of mine, but there are many more surprises in store.