Stereovox

The Akron-based Stereovox's full-length debut isn't exactly groundbreaking — it recalls '90s alt-pop acts like Dishwalla and Vertical Horizon — but it certainly is well written. Singer Michael Muratore strikes a perfect balance with the rest of the group's upbeat and melodic playing. "Love" and "Standing By" are ridiculously catchy, but the title track cops its opening guitar riff from Oasis' "Wonderwall." Too bad, since the song picks up after that. And that's Believe's main problem: lack of originality. Still, it's a good listen. Let's just hope Sterovox plays its own tunes next time.