Hell, even Marilyn Manson’s got the measure of this scary electro-goth thang. South London industrialists Sulpher, who tweak the production on ‘Rip’, do it better. Things have come full circle and, ironically, Gary Numan is struggling to keep up with bands almost certainly inspired by his legacy.

There’s no explosion of life when you expect the hushed creeping intro to scream into the dark side fucking with your speakers. No great hook. Nothing but a damp reminder that ’80s synth music was as soulless and distanced from reality as the decade of its origin, no matter what dewy-eyed closet ex-new romantics might try to tell you.

Fresh mixes of ‘Are ‘Friends’ Electric?’ (Sugababes, career re-launch, you know the story) and ‘M.E.’ (provider of Basement Jaxx’s ‘Where’s Your Head At’ sample) are choicely inserted B-sides to tempt cash-leaving-wallet scenarios. But get the hint Gary – if you don’t need the money, give it up.

If by some oversight of nature you still worship the palest old man in town, get the best of Numan compilation ‘Exposure’ that preceded this single. Or else scrub off that fucking gothic get-up and come join the real world.