2011, and power-pop is taking over? WTF! On their debut, this Somerset, NJ quartet recorded by Grip Weeds (and current Left Banke) drummer extraordinaire Kurt Reil like theirs meaty like Cheap Trick, speedy and boyishly catchy like The Rubinoos, hard-hitting as Sloan, and fresh-faced as Pointed Sticks (plus a song is titled “Xrayspex”). Perhaps the state’s previous patron saints such as The Smithereens (whom Reil also recorded), Dipsomaniacs, and Bastards of Melody fit here, too (or could, in a cool quadruple bill at New Brunswick’s Court Tavern some night!), for with their big-lead guitars, ‘80s Ameri-indie rock drive, and driving get-up-and-go, *Theo Meyer*’s crew are rightly requesting “Permission to Rock You.” Sure, be my guest! If only Jersey had shook like this when I was teenage, I might’ve never left. (meyermanmusic.com)
