Medium 21 - 'Killings From The Dial' (Temptation) Released 17/03/03

Medium 21 are an English band that has set out on the great highway that is American indie rock. They're not driving a Chevy though, it's something more akin to the Ford Escort. Think early Mercury Rev and Flaming Lips meets the Cure and you'll hopefully get my drift. The singles Acting Like A Mirror and Daybreak Vs Pride show just how to produce quirky yet catchy songs, while the acoustic comes out on Poisoned Postcards and By My Side bring out the more laid back side of the band.

There isn't anything particularly ground breaking here, but John Clough's distinctive vocals keep things interesting. At times he sounds like Neil Young tuned down an octave. However, this means the songs aren't always immediate, and require a few listens to appreciate. I can't recommend Medium 21 as a must visit destination on the aforementioned highway, but at the moment they're an interesting diversion with promise.