FLEDGLING

There are eleven tracks on the self-titled debut from half-American, half-english quartet Fledgling. Unforunately, hardly any of them come across as standouts from what is indeed quite a fledgling band. They have a bit of a ways to travel to refine their sound.

It's garagey, indie grittiness with a slightly bluesy flavor, all of it frosted with the raspy vocal stylings of Eileen Rose. The tunes aren't bad if you look at them, or rather listen to them, individually, but overall they tend to sort of clone each other in a generic, bland way.

And it's kind of disappointing, because it seems to reflect a lack of energy or vigor on the part of the band. Admittedly, the crafted edginess is there, but a reliance upon hackneyed, formulaic arrangements keeps Fledgling from coming of age. (TVT)