moe

By eric anderson Catalyst

Send comments to: catalyst@wildcat.arizona.edu

Wildcat File Photo Arizona Daily Wildcat

Tin Cans and Car Tires

(550 Music/Epic Records)

Hype often carries more of a burden than a blessing. For the past couple of years, I've heard constant raves from friends, roomies, etc. about this group moe., so by the time I finally got my hands on their new album, Tin Cans and Car Tires, this four-man band from New York had some hefty praise to live up to.

Consider those expectations reached.

In fact, with their unique rock-reggae-country sound, they far exceeded any preconceptions I had about them. Catchy tunes like "Nebraska," "Stranger Than Fiction," and "Plane Crash" instantly grab you and continue to resonate in your head for days to come, while slower, more melodic songs like "Letter Home" set the soul at ease.

As enjoyable as the music is, the best part of the new album is inside the cover where the band tells the inspiration behind each song - excellent for those who are able to enjoy music beyond its limited aural capacity.