The Bravery - Bravery (CD)

All Music Guide

The Bravery's selftitled debut is a slick twist on '80s new wave and postmillennium modern rock. Those who've followed the Killers, stellastarr, and the like will surely pounce on The Bravery's luscious synthdriven pop. The 11song set, produced by the band's frontman, Sam Endicott, is playful and confident, unlike the stressful production of the Killers' Hot Fuss. Sure, obvious influences (Duran Duran, the Smiths, the Cure) carry the weight of this album, but it's without haste. An overcast backdrop dresses the trashy hints of love and desire, and cocksure moments such as "Public Service Announcement" and "No Brakes" showcase The Bravery's swagger with style. Endicott goes from sounding like a Robert Smith copycat ("Tyrant") to a dirtier Julian Casablancas ("Out of Line") and maintains a focused, fashionable dance sound. "Unconditional" soars with a sly guitar/keyboard twostep while "An Honest Mistake" saunters like classic New Order with its darkhued mechanical energy. The Bravery isn...'t sonically mindblowing, but the new millennium new wave revival remains intriguing. This New York fivepiece makes an interesting effort without it coming off contrived and dishonest. Get ready to shake your hips - MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide Read more Less