Where the hell did this band come from? I heard the name tossed around one
time but it didn't really mean anything to me. Now that I've got it, I
wonder how this band has slipped under so many peoples' radars. There's
not really any good reason for it. So I get this CD knowing very little
about the band; the cold listen is in effect. Do they follow through?


In a word, yes.


This band appears to be a four-piece from California, which partially
explains my lack of knowledge. They have a tough sound to pin down, but I
think the best way to describe them would be a much more indie rock
version of Radiohead. Now, I'm no huge Radiohead fan like all the other
indie kids running around proclaiming them as corporate rock's last hope,
but I'll admit they're a fuck of a lot better than Ricky Martin (nods to
John). The singer for Fiver reminds me of Thom Yorke a bit, so I guess
thats where the comparison comes from. They also employ the use of a
keyboard for that oh-so-indie-'99 sound. That's a good thing, but if you
want a point of reference on this, look through the archives at my Blue
Ontario review. Anyway, this is a very enjoyable CD that I would recommend
wholeheartedly to any fans of the Blue Ontario, Antarctica, Tristeza, or
My Bloody Valentine. While I don't think Fiver are quite as good as any of
those bands, per se, they can certainly hold their own. The next thing we
need is a full US tour and I'll be happy. Color me a fan.