The Novaks

What the Novaks present with their sophomore release is an offering of bluesy and boozy, fuzzed out rock'n'roll. The St. John's, Newfoundland natives have managed to pack a big sound with their barebones arrangement and somehow roped in Ian McLagan, of Rod Stewart and Ronnie Woods' super-group the Faces, to play keyboards on the album. The music is comparable to acts like the Black Keys and the Rolling Stones, with the vocals dripping a cool disposition similar to Tom Petty and Jonathan Richmond. "Destroyer" and "Why Wonder?" are ferocious blues rock anthems with driving drums and meltdown guitar licks, while "Rain, Rain, Rain" and "Runaway" showcase the band's pop sensibilities, utilizing balmy vocal harmonies and infectious hooks. As far as Canadian indie rock goes, the Novaks are a breath of fresh air and Things Fall Apart is a kick in the ass that makes you appreciate the fact that some artists in this country are still staying true to the rock'n'roll spirit.