Pedalling thier own distinct brand of alternative indie garage rock influenced by The Pixies, Operation Ivy, Sonic Youth and The Stooges, Pagoda's self titled debut was recorded in Italy, of all places. But that doesn't disguise their roots, and while the line up may have changed since, the one constant is singer / songwriter and guitar palyer Michael Pitt.

Also plying his trade as an actor, Pitt claims that Pagaoda is not a part time job, and it's clear that he wears his heart and influences on his sleeve. The album opens with Stones meet Inxs unpolished garage rock. It's all together a rough and ready piece of work - no neatly polished gloss - just gritty, uncomplicated rock n roll.

At times dischordant and chaotic, at others raw and dischordant the album doesn't pretend to be anything it s not. Nicely recorded with plenty of separation, it's not a cheeful disc. But then it's probably not intended to be.

***

Review by Pete Whalley