Back in 1990, the British group the La's had an alternative rock smash with "There She Goes". Their self-titled debut garnered critical praise, but was immediately trashed by their meticulous lead vocalist, Lee Mavers. While Mavers continues on his Brian Wilson-like quest for the perfect music album, bassist John Power has gotten over the La's and recorded a nearly perfect British pop album as vocalist for Cast, All Change.
Nearly six months after its release in their native England, Cast's debut finally has hit American shores - and it's not a minute too soon. The first song, "Alright", is one of the year's classic singles, and if there's any justice in the world, *that* will be the song that everyone sings this summer.
For people who might remember the Supreme Love Gods several years back, Cast's "Sandstorm" truly sounds like the SLG "Souled Out"; both tracks clearly take their inspiration from the Beatles "I Am The Walrus" in a world which meets the 60's British pop. Merseybeat makes a grand entrance throughout All Change, especially on "Fine Time" (not the New Order song). And, even while bowing to the British pop of the 60's, traces of Joy Division (on "Reflections") and U2's wah-wah guitar ("History") can be heard throughout.
Are they Herman's Hermits with the alternative twist for the 90's? Or is it the Who, the Kinks, or Small Faces? It doesn't really matter; by now, it has become painfully clear that John Power was the hidden gem from the La's who, with All Change, has recorded the masterpiece Lee Mavers was looking for. Fans of British pop will take to this like a child takes to chocolates - and keep coming back for more.
