Fountains of Wayne

With the rise of a new swathe of British bands ready to invade the US [The Darkness, Snow Patrol, Franz Ferdinand etc] America seems to be lacking in similar exports. Ok, we have the Britney's and Timberlake's but I'm talking about decent stuff. One export they have kept quite about though, is Fountains of Wayne.

The band, named after a lawn ornament shop in New Jersey, have a story telling ability that is rare in its simple beauty. Melodic pop/rock is the order of the night and these guys give 110% in what must be a contender for gig of the year. Announcing that this is the last date in their tour they tear into ‘Hackensack' and the mention of Christopher Walken just confirms that we are on the same wavelength. An acoustic version of the new single ‘Hey Julie' further reinforces this assumption. A classic rendition of ‘Mexican Wine' follows and then to cap things off we are entertained with a superb interpretation of ‘Is That Love' by Squeeze. FoW are so comfortable and relaxed when playing that it really is a pleasure to behold, a feeling that is easily transferred to all present.

A better gig this year … I'd love to see it.