SMALL 23: True Zero Hook

Alias

For the uninitiated, Durham's Small 23 plays guitar-driven indie rock in a style similar to Archers of Loaf (loud, quick, meaty) but somewhat lacking that seven-grain heft. True Zero Hook, their debut LP, is no great surprise. Don't misunderstanding, you see, I was expecting one. With the lineup change (guitarist David Hollinghurst replacing Eric Bachmann), new label, etc., the music has gained new influence and, yes, polish. There is even (gasp) a pretty acoustic song. Small 23, however, is still Small. If you liked them before, you'll like them now. They don't break any new ground, but they what they do well. (Will Singletary)

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