Over the Top

Urban carnage and sticky midsummer heat depress the spirits. That this CD, by New Jersey band Smash Palace, can raise the smile quotient is proof of its creators' instinctive pop sensibility.

The anglophile five piece deliver a set that echoes a number of class acts – Crowded House, The Kinks and Elvis Costello & the Attractions amongst others. But the performers wear their influences lightly and have enough quality songs to make a lasting impression.

Two songs deserve particular praise: 'Ordinary World' soars, driven by a great chorus, a little harmonica and some chiming 12 string guitar. 'Juliet To Me' is another sweet song, a natural radio- friendly single.

Smash Palace are a romantic bunch, albeit with a few bruises ('Dime Store Lies' is quite bitter). But the record has considerable bite too, thanks to some tough lead guitar from Stephen Butler and a tight rhythm section. The confident arrangements and the élan the musicians bring to each song is reminiscent of The Long Ryders' debut, 'Native Sons'.

'Over The Top' stands on its own terms, as a restatement of to the point songwriting and classic pop values.

~David Garner, Leisure