Modern Mexico

The Femursare a rudimentary group who often keep things to a minimum. And unlike other tandems who can dish out big beefy sounds à la White Stripes, this group has much more in common with high-octane, highbrow pop bands like the Housemartins, as is the case during the pleasing "Vitamins" and the finer, frantic "Round and Round." Not quite as quirky lyrically as groups such as They Might Be Giants or Barenaked Ladies, the Femurs offer up strong, catchy songs throughout with the appealing "Girl for Everyone." The first true highlight is the lovely "Crazy Girl" that is teeming with toe-tapping, head-bobbing hooks. But this is quickly followed up with another nugget titled "Not Giving Up" that brings to mind an early album from Bishop Allen. The duo's gorgeous harmonies are another asset on the record (which is culled from two different EPs). And repeated listens are almost required of the delectable "Allison." This is the type of album that is great in short spurts or listens, with "Plastic Swords" still fun but not having that oomph of earlier tracks. Despite a few lulls on the second half of the record, things come back up to snuff with "Calgon" which is rife with Beach Boys-like breezy harmonies.