I've seen Jason Pierce / Spiritualized perform some of these songs live (as part of the 'Acoustic Mainlines' tours) and they've sounded incredible, especially 'Soul on Fire' which has a big epic feel. One of my friends (a journo) has an advance copy of 'Songs in A&E' and I've been blown away by what he's played me from it. The songs are really beautiful - most of them are quite stripped back, but very soulful, and my initial impression is that this could be up there as one of their best records. I'm looking forward to getting a copy so I can make up my mind for sure!