Knock Knock

With regard to Smog, I was one of the many uninitiated.The first song, 'Let's Move To The Country' seemed to me reminiscent of Spacemen 3. Singer Bill Callahan bears a strong vocal resemblance to Lou Reed.

The use of a children's choir on any song immediately produces a hostile reaction. But 'No Dancing' with its David Bowie 'Rebel Rebel' style guitar riff is certainly enhanced by the depth and scope that the children's choir from Chicago bring.

''Hit The Ground Running' is a remarkably upbeat song, considering that it contains violins and bizarre lyrics stating: "I was raised in a pit of snakes/Blink your eyes/ I was raised on cake," Musically, the meandering guitar work is, to my ears, blissful.

On first listen, Knock, Knock may not grab you by the scruff of the neck and force you to hone in. But at the same time you are unlikely to immediately switch it off.

I recommend this type of Smog as an acquisition unlikely to pollute your stereo.