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Like such similarly styled outfits as the Dudes, the Records, and the Raspberries, Shoes seem intent on resurrecting mid-60s power pop on Present Tense, their debut LP. That’s fine with me, especially since the Illinois quartet boasts tight guitar, sweet, airy harmonies, and accessible original material. I do hope that their second album will feature fewer soundalikes and a bit more punch; but with songs that are as much fun as “Cruel You” to enjoy here, I’m not in a mood to complain.
By Jeff Burger 