It seems like people either got this band or didn’t with their last couple albums. I was one of the getters - “bandages” sold me. So when I heard their most recent single, I was a little confused. Looks like they’re now trying to MAKE people get them… by becoming a little more radio friendly, a little less jingle jangle, and an all around major label band.

Their first album was released on Sub Pop, the grandaddy of the Indies as far as I’m concerned. It produced such beauties as this one (”Bandages”):

They got tons of critical acclaim for this album… were #1 on KROQ, airplay on MTV, the whole shebang. Which led to them signing with Warner. The second album just seemed to come and go (with a little blip from “Goodnight Goodnight”. Definitely not as good as the first album.

Now they’re gearing up for the September 11 release of their third album and it looks like the boys are getting scared. They are TOTALLY embracing the whole major label mindset. Let me give you the evidence.

Exhibit A) This new single SCREAMS teen pop. I would probably get pissed that they abandoned their indie sound, but they have strings on the track. If you’re gonna sell out, do it with strings - everyone knows I’m a sucker for a violin.

Exhibit B) The lead singer cut his hair! Here’s an old photo:

And now Exhibits A and B can both be seen in the video for “Let Me In”:

He’s cuuuuuuuuute! I mean, that’s what I’d say if I were a 16 year old girl.

And finally….

Exhibit C) They’re touring with… Snow Patrol. Enough said.