The Greenhornes – ****

Comprised partly of The Raconteurs’ rhythm section, The Greenhornes have been producing unashamedly feel good rock n’ roll since 1996. To say they wear their influences on their sleeve would be an understatement; the spirit of 60s rockers ranging from The Kinks to The Rolling Stones hovering over **** is almost oppressive. Almost, but not quite. The quality of the songwriting here, combined with their undeniably heartfelt, infectious enthusiasm, sets them above other soundalikes.

If you’re a fan of pulsating, driving garage rock, or exuberant guitar solos that Keith Richards would be proud to have belted out, you’ll find plenty to like here. The Greenhornes are equally adept at evoking a carefree, starry-eyed youthfulness, and crafting the sort of melancholy, reverb-soaked ballad that The Zombies excel at. If, on the other hand, you think rock should do more than reverently recreate past glories, the whole exercise might feel like a labour. [Sam Wiseman]