In the late '80s the Pastels were bold purveyors of anorak pop, the shambling, chaotic love rock that was named for the heavy coats its followers wore in every weather. A decade later sees the band light years away from their former artlessness. Illumination is a fluid and spacious work, with offhand vocals and textured melodies that recall late-'60s Southern California folk rock. The Pastels have been a continual influence on the Glasgow, Scotland, music scene, and their passion for flute, percussion, and low-key organ can be detected in their protégés the Delgados and Belle & Sebastian. Rather than being fusty, nostalgic old-schoolers, the Pastels adapt their music to current moods and interests. Illumination takes a relaxed view of things, which makes the frantic pace of the music world slowly disappear. That is true magic. --Lois Maffeo