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Dog Problems | The Vanity Label/Nettwerk By: MIKAEL WOOD8/8/2006 1:46:22 PM 
WITH FLEAS: The Format’s sense of humor has survived, along with their hooks.
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This Arizona-based power-pop combo had a terrific alt-rock radio hit a few years ago called “The First Single,” a self-consciously exuberant mini-anthem that proved they had a sense of humor to go along with their sense of hook. Originally the lead cut from an EP released by Jimmy Eat World frontman Jim Adkins, “The First Single” earned them a deal with Elektra; the resulting album didn’t catch major-label fire — in the record biz that’s known as “a dog” — so they’ve issued Dog Problems, their second full-length, on their own vanity label, which they’re calling, yes, the Vanity Label. In other words, the sense of humor survived the shake-ups, and so have the hooks: Dog Problems overflows with melody, each song a micro-managed collage of twisty-turny vocal lines and candy-coated guitar fuzz. Producer Steven McDonald (of Redd Kross) makes sure the Dixieland jazz breaks and synth-pop flare-ups cohere but preserves the studied spontaneity these guys treasure. Fans of Panic! at the Disco will find much to love.
Rainer Maria + The Format + Anathallo + Street To Nowhere | August 10 | Axis, 13 Lansdowne Street, Boston | 617.931.2000
On the Web
The Format's official Web site: //www.theformat.com/
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