the daily texan

Sometimes a pop song, or even an entire record, can be so catchy that the inoffensive nature of truly novel guitar-driven melodies and vocal hooks can obscure the artistry tapped to bring about its creation. Such is the case with New Orleans natives Motorway and their new self-titled release.

Their sound is the distillation of American roots-rock coupled with the easily identified (and seemingly ubiquitous) British rock influence ranging from the Kinks and the Beatles to Coldplay. However, the multiple layers of lush guitar tones and backing vocals contributed by Mike Blum and Colin Brown blend seamlessly with the understated rhythmic pulse of drummer Eric Padua to produce a vibe unique to their streamlined sound. Standout tracks include the upbeat anthem "Everything," and the laid-back brit-ballad "She."

Though the remainder of the album is certainly more than noteworthy, tunes like "Peace of Mind" and "Siren" lack the outright momentum to elevate the record to what would otherwise be monumental independent release. A tasty alternative to the radio-rock mainstream, Motorway successfully maps some new sonic territory without wandering too far astray.

Motorway has spent much of the last two years touring and recording with fellow "kings" of New Orleans Better Than Ezra and Austin favorites Cowboy Mouth. You can check them out at The Mercury this Thursday night with 54 Seconds and Jason Blum.