Dear and the Headlights - Small Steps and Heavy Hooves

Entering the competition for one of the most original band names of the year is Phoenix's own Dear and the Headlights. They also happen to play very strong indie rock music and have released their quite excellent debut record, Small Steps and Heavy Hooves (gotta love a band that's that committed to their name) via Equal Vision Records. The album is as quirky as you'd expect from a band called Dear and the Headlights; full of sweet vocals and pop hooks galore. The lead track "Oh No!" is especially telling of the band's style and dynamic control, a device they use throughout the record. Other standout tracks include "Paper Bag" and "I Just Do," which is a sweet little number about loving someone just because you do. There's definitely a lot to like about DATH and they are a welcome addition to the always eclectic EVR catalog. [www.dearandtheheadlights.com]