When
Cyclefly's debut album,
Generation Sap, came out in 1999, the band's forceful yet melodic style of alternative rock was often described as a combination of
Smashing Pumpkins,
David Bowie,
Jane's Addiction and
Iggy Pop. But much of the time,
Cyclefly is heavier and more metallic than
Bowie, and as hard-driving as songs like "Following Yesterday," "Plastic Coasted Man" and "Crawl Down" are, they aren't as abrasive or as noisy as the recordings of
Jane's Addiction. And while all of those comparisons are valid and accurate, it's important to stress that
Cyclefly is obviously striving for originality on this likable, if mildly uneven, debut. One of the European band's strongest assets is Declan O'Shea, whose lead vocals are quirky, oddly appealing and recognizable.
Generation Sap isn't a perfect album, but it's a satisfying and interesting one -- and it lets us know that
Cyclefly has possibilities. ~ Alex Henderson