Debut albums rarely arrive with as much expectation as 's -- in Britain, at least. Arriving after the massive success of and , was perceived as the heir apparent to the lad- throne. One listen to illustrates why -- the group ingeniously combines the anthemic hooks and monolithic roar of with the sweeping aural majesty of . That alone makes the album a bracing listen, but doesn't quite have enough substance to compete in the big leagues. simply doesn't have the charisma of or , and his songs aren't as immediate or memorable as 's or 's. That's not to say they're bad songs -- on the contrary, they're quite good, and they're performed passionately. It's just that in comparison to their peers -- who really are their influences, as well -- they lack that certain magic. Nevertheless, illustrates enough promise and panache to make it a first-rate debut. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine