The Black Fever

Canadians seem to love the UK, especially when it comes to music. It's no surprise then, that Toronto band the Black Fever have gone a bit mad on English music, even referencing Madchester and Brit Pop (in their press release). Right from the get-go they sound like a cross between the Dandy Warhols and the La's, and yet the lack of the correct social context leaves the songs feeling a little empty, with the lyrics sounding especially wrong. A lot of the time, however, it seems as if their desperation to categorise themselves alongside the likes of the Verve and the Stone Roses is holding them back from a sound they'd otherwise gravitate towards, notably on "By Your Side." If they concentrated more on being the band they are rather than trying to be Oasis, then they'd be so, so much better.