The Exies - Inertia - 724381330906 - CD

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

Looking at the back cover of INERTIA, one might guess from the Exies' shaggy haired, late-MC5-esque appearance that the band is yet another garage rock contender hoping to gather some of the crumbs of public attention left by the Strokes/Vines/Hives contingent. In fact, the group is composed of L.A. grunge rockers with a penchant for sharp melodies and Stone Temple Pilots-style pop traditionalism. Though the Exies are certainly familiar with the Nirvana loud-soft-loud school of guitar arrangement, lead singer/songwriter Scott Stevens avoids indulging in Kurt Cobain's moping-as-art-form lyrics, instead preferring to explore the finer points of failed relationships in a rugged, breathy voice that often recalls Johnny Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls. The band also separates itself from the pack with some unusual production touches including orchestral arrangements and frequent use of spacey guitar effects. Though they lack the refined hit songwriting instincts of the Goos and STP, with INERTA the Exies deliver an album of expertly performed, radio-ready alternative rock with and just enough spice to make it a consistent and enjoyable listen.