Collider

On its third studio album, the Dutch band Moke recalls Britpop’s mid-'90s heyday, when bands like Embrace, Northern Uproar, Hurricane #1, Shed Seven, Menswear, Cast, and The Bluetones were competing for next-big-thing status. The Amsterdam quintet’s 2012 full-length goes back in time to set the bar higher with “Tears,” a swooning ballad that plays like Dog Man Star–era Suede as vocalist Felix Maginn sings through his nose (à la Liam Gallagher). Following a dramatic piano intro, “Scratch Marks” cranks up the electric guitars, which rock into a triumphant chorus with handsome melodies. Here, Maginn’s nasal inflections dip down into his throat for a performance that has more in common with Brett Anderson. “Opening Up” swaggers with the cocksure bravado of a solo Richard Ashcroft tune before “I’ve Got Silence You’ve Got Sound” proves to be the album’s standout. With jangly Rickenbacker tones, a driving rhythm section, and a smashing, anthemic refrain, it’s easy to understand why Paul Weller is so hyped on this band. Following the gorgeous serenade “Almost Home,” the deluxe version boasts 21 live recordings.