Chris DeLine

After a hazy guitar intro, the second track on the Japandroids’ debut album, Young Hearts Spark Fire, rolls into a an introductory beat comparable to that on Phoenix’s summer hit, “Lisztomania.” Mere moments after that the similarities between the two bands end, however, as the Vancouver-based duo take flight into the sonically explosive track with an energetic power that is showcased throughout the entire album. Guitarist Brian King and drummer David Prowse have a dynamic relationship onstage that translates into a unique combination of head-banging riffs and a punk band’s ferociousness. They may not deliver singles that invite hype or radio airplay, but one thing is evident as much on the band’s album as it is while watching them perform live: They put everything they have into their music. Joining the duo will be Mt. St. Helens Vietnam Band and Gospel Gossip. 21+.

[This critics’ pick was originally published by City Pages.]