The Grates

Do these new jams from Aussies the Grates sound a bit familiar? Uh, Yeah, Yeah and Yeah. Whether intentional or not, their guitar-drum-vocal combo, spastic two-and-a-half minute workouts and vocalist Patience Hodgson's belted purr go a wee bit beyond mere derivation (do yourself a favor and listen to "Rock Boys"--it's downright creepy). And it's a shame, because the playing here is airtight, and the staccato attack of "Inside Outside" and oompa swing of "Nothing Sir" show there's more to these guys than sheer imitation. Just maybe not this time around.