Reviewed by Steve Best

Possibly New Zealand's best kept secret in recent years, this third full length album takes things on considerably from 1999's 'Lost @ Sea', which sounded as if it needed better production. Well, guess what? 12 new songs and some blistering production courtesy of the band, Malcolm Welsford and Nic Manders. Lads have an American deal and an album which takes on All Star United and leaves the Americans creaking on their blocks. Simply put, this is perfect rock-tinged pop with a quirky edge. Check out the hit single "Creator", the opener "Wonderful Day", or the engaging "Cannibalism". Most bizarrely, Lads ask "'Who Is Mikey Trousers" and although I haven't a clue, I can say that after hinting before at greatness, Lads are the real deal, and after taking on the Parachute Band in the UK, Fierce! Distribution should pick this lot up pronto.

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