The Hickey Underworld - The Hickey Underworld

Belgium has been responsible for some of the most esoteric and brilliantly unusual albums of the last decade (see Millionaire, Deus and Soulwax). The Hickey Underworld are quick to suggest that perhaps this is as a reaction to the Americanised schtik of so many of the country's emotional hardcore and pop acts. This self-titled debut has proven a surprise hit on the Belgian underground scene, thanks largely to the band's great live reputation. Given their politics, it's ironic that this album wears its Nirvana and Dischord influences proudly on its sleeve, but they are so heavily filtered through years of alt-pop and stubborn continental eccentricity as to avoid allegations of emulation, meaning the final product sounds both original and relevant. Forthcoming single Blonde Fire is an especially catchy number, as is its precursor Sick Of Boys; both pack enough groove to be catchy and enough teeth to be exciting.