The Austin group White Denim likes to be a bit cross. The group members around front man James Petralli have a better command of their instruments than an average American indie rock band, but they do fish from the indie rock pond. As if they quickly get bored with this, they like to play their music bouncy and with many erratic transitions and tempo changes. Music that feels hectic and cheerful at
… the same time. With this in mind, their eighth album starts with a heavy portion of glam rock, complete with pounding rhythm and thumping saxophone riff, which is also called Good News. However, the good news turns out to be temporary because what follows is a new maze of seemingly structured songs. Sometimes there is a nod to soul and funk, complete with (again) horns, but with his somewhat stiff and voluminous voice, Petralli is far from a soul singer. White denim is something different, but it should suit you. (MR)more