Duke Fame

This Atlanta-based band play a kind of rock-pop with definite power-pop influences. Now I have to say that I am turned off immediately by that - I just can't get to grips with the melodies and it just isn't my bag. If you like a rocky, catchy, power-pop then you will like this.

Since I am obviously not a person qualified to review this CD, why bother? Well, there are four tracks on here that really do appeal to me. Born Ugly has nice distorted guitar work. Here I Am has simple but effective guitar and the whole thing reminds me a bit of Bob Mould. Most Days has a wonderful laconic vocal delivery from Eric Zweig and a killer chorus (in a downbeat sort of way). Sad But Beautiful, the last song on the CD, sounds like it is a live favourite - heavy guitar riffs, an assured pace, real variation, and lots of ideas. This has real drive and is a storming track.

They are named after the character in This Is Spinal Tap - great name. They sound like a band who drink a lot of beer together, have a good sense of humor, and are well worth seeing live. Check out the music on their website and if it appeals, buy it. But remember the name because they have something and if they really develop it, they are going places.