Just when you thought Mudcat had regained its senses, the more ludicrous "I don't like 'em so they're crap/sold out to EMI/shafted Belinda" theorists are out and about again.
For the record, this is what Rachel had to say about the debate in her interview with me for Salut! Live


"I do try and avoid message boards as a rule, but you intrigued me so I had a look. Well, what can I say! People are truly divided, it's quite unsettling to be the subject of such controversy! Some people obviously think we can't sing for toffee whilst others think we are breath of fresh air!?! In our defence we do like a clashy harmony or two and enjoy bending the odd few notes. But who am I to say? As for the EMI debate, mmm I don't quite get it. Maybe people aren't aware that it only a licensing deal we have with them. We researched, recorded, produced our album ourselves on a limited budget and a vocal booth which consisted of our under the stairs cupboard. We have complete artistic control in everything from music to artwork and definitely pick our own frocks! I am tempted to think that some people in their internet universe may not be aware of the current fashions in the outside world, it's not unusual for young women to wear frocks!! However, this is probably very judgemental of me, I shouldn't join their ranks! Perhaps we should start wearing jeans and woolly jumpers on stage to look a bit more authentic. Quite seriously though, people might think that wearing posh dresses is about marketing and glamour, but with us I think it comes more from of an old fashioned, working class hang up of always wearing your best frock when in public, and by god if standing on a stage isn't a good excuse to get your spangles out, then what is! As for Belinda, none of us wanted her to leave the band and EMI certainly didn't push her out. She has been an important part of our soundscape and we've loved having her in the band. The creative process has always involved the five of us however (me, Becky, Niopha, Adrian and Belinda), and was never led by one individual. I'm sure our sound will change, but her departure won't signify a sudden dearth of creative ideas. Just been back to Mudcat and it's all turned a bit vicious!! I suppose reading these chat rooms is a bit like over hearing people talking about you in a bar. Sometimes it'll be a pleasant experience, sometimes not. I think I might avoid them in future though. It's a bit like they don't think we are real people, just sport. It's important not to believe the hype about yourself or the mud slinging if you are going to remain sane."