For all the posturing and far-worse embarrassing imagery of the '80s, it's refreshing to hear groups today echoing the better flavors from that decade. Class Actress lands here with Journal of Ardency, an EP that is entertaining, moody and eyebrow raising. The trio makes synth-based, nearly subconscious groove-laced dance music with intelligence and fashion. It's especially enjoyable for those who normally may not enjoy the genre.

This marriage of the coy and sultry singer Elizabeth Harper with well-thought-out driving music has more in common with the Human League and DJ Shadow than early '80s Madonna. It's built around Harper's sensual vocal style and music crafted off big-beat samples lifted from vinyl. Harper comes off as less of an actual pop songstress and more of an accidental one by singing reserved, hearty vocals that are breathless ?and bated. She holds back for effect - tempting, not teasing.

The vibe is dance music at slower speeds where the grooves mean more - decidedly chill, not bombastic. Throughout the electronic-heavy EP there are nods and winks at New Order andDebbie Harry. There are also keyboard-rich songs ("Careful What You Say," "Someone Real") that play with squashed beats and ghostly vocals and "Let Me Take You Out" could easily be a U2 cover.

Journal of Ardency is dance music for people who want to get down without having to get polluted. If Harper is aiming to be a diva then she's the new kind, one that is less loathsome while still delivering the goods. (Terrible Records)