As the recent success of The Frames et al has proved, the DIY music scene in Dublin is alive and well. The Defective Collective are the latest in a long line of groups putting on gigs and giving bands that vital first step.

This CD is a bit of a mixed affair both in terms of quality (the live recordings leave a bit to be desired) and styles, from the smattering of singer songwriters to the wigged out jazz rock of Schpam. The most impressive material comes from those bands who have already made it into a studio. Lotusland offer a nice line in jangly guitar pop with ‘Flawless’, a very good song, while Fracas sound a bit like The Sundays singing in Irish. While we should be all for those who want to help new talent, The Collectivities unfortunately sells all involved a little short in the way of packaging and general presentation and it’s hard to see anyone out of the collective’s immediate circle taking the plunge on this one.