Black Kids

Black Kids: Over-hyped?

Partie Traumatic

Do believe the hype. It's easy to write off a band that gets an early buzz going – hell, just take a look at the recent comments about the Ting Tings.

You'd think they'd been repsonsible for England not qualifying for Euro 2008 or an assortment of war crimes rather than releasing a perfectly enjoyable album.

Black Kids, the mixed bag Florida collective, have been picking up similar early positive word... which usually means the backlash is just around the corner. It's probably inevitable – particularly from the British music press – because hey, that's what they do. Build 'em up, knock 'em down and then when they come back, well, then it's alright to like 'em again. However, the sheer quality of Partie Traumatic should defer the vitriol for a while yet.

We hate to try and define sounds or pigeonhole bands but, if we had to, we'd say Black Kids were 80's soul boys and girls channelling the B-52s in a garage next door to the Cure. This is indie-rock with a funky beat and an ear for a fine pop tune. Or possibly funk with an indie spirit and an ear for a fine pop tune. Or, indeed, fine pop with an indie beat and an ear for a funk tune. Or... well, you get the point.

I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You still sounds great, of course and is probably the stand out but it's a close thing. This is a a fine party-friendly package that will no doubt provide the soundtrack to many a forthcoming barbecue.

They say: 'One minute they're new romantics or dour indie kids, then, before you've had a chance to draw breath, they're apeing the Ronettes. Searching for a feel-good summer smash? Come on in. Jim Butler, The Observer

We say: Damn near irresistible.

Best track: I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You, with I've Underestimated My Charm (Again) pushing it a close second.

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