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Title: So what, it's derivative, but that's not necessarily a BAD thing...
Review: When you begin writing anything: whether it is a short story, poetry, or a power pop song, it's impossible to not be derivative--we all internalize our influences and translate them in our own style. As an artist matures, he begins to more successfully blend he influences with his own style and finds his own voice. Devin Davis' "Lonely People" is clearly derivative (and may be subjected to criticism because of it) but I personally have no complaints because Davis has (1) clearly chosen some of the best of the genre to emulate and (2) has pulled off an entertaining collection of songs reminiscent Matthew Sweet's "Girlfriend". If you miss Ray Davies' power pop and are looking for someone who rocks the same chords with the energy of the Spiders From Mars, check this CD out. It isn't going to change the world or anything, but it will make it a lot groovier.
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