The Cute Lepers

What's a pop-punk devotee to do when a power (chord) player such as the Briefs goes on indefinite hiatus? Scope out the Cute Lepers, the new band featuring Briefs principals Steve E. Nix and Stevie Kicks. The two groups share the same late-'70s iconic punk influences, but the addition of female backup singers and mod harmonies means that the Seattle sextet's tunes are more melodic and diverse. The Lepers' full-length debut, Can't Stand Modern Music, is aptly titled, given the various musical throwbacks encountered ("It's Summertime Baby!" alone combines rock & roll guitars, doo-wop background vocals and pogo-punk energy). Be warned, though: With Nix and Kicks now pursuing a mod revival, expect a show with "Beatle Bob's wet dream" written all over it.