Branch Manager: Anything Tribal

It always sounds trite to point out that a three-piece band has a "remarkably full sound," but in the case of Branch Manager, it's appropriate. Other descriptive terms include "energetic," "tight," "passionate" and "unpredictable." Try those on, then try "uninspiring" or "lackluster." Anything Tribal is clearly the product of a band that loves to make music, but that love doesn't do much for its songwriting. There's a lot of push on the album; its heavy beats, howling vocals and wailing guitar solos are reminiscent of any number of power-rock bands like Bad Brains or Jane's Addiction. Unfortunately, the group lacks the hooks to take that push in any direction, and while it's clear that there's a good album in Branch Manager, Anything Tribal ain't the one.