The ever independent and individualistic Khan embraces vocals on NO COMPRENDO -- which might be, ironically, his more pop-accessible album thus far. The French electropop of "Les Gros Nichons" probably won't find much airplay, but it's Gallic charm is undeniable. Kid Congo Powers, on "Why Hurt Flesh," continues the cabaret from hell sound reminiscent of his work with Nick Cave, but now placed in an electronic framework, though the guitars are still menacing, a mood which continues on the dubby "The Wolf" and the blues-influenced "Monster" and "Mercy Mama." Julee Cruise adds her ethereal voice to the Latin-tinged "Say Goodbye" and Diamanda Galas goes quasi-operatic on the eerie "Aman." But the overall effect of the album is uneven -- seems like a concept album when the concept isn't fully thought out. But there's no misunderstanding the individual tracks.