Arks: The International (High Wheels)

Damn straight-up terse post-punk rock ’n’ roll. Opener “The International” tells you that this band is rehearsed and spanky. They don’t relent—the album is almost too consistent. There are a thousand other bands that do the same thing without what seems to be a strong work ethic, though, and that makes Arks stand out a bit. The album cover sucks, looking like some Interpol toss-off: uncomfortable chairs, dark lighting. I’d like to see them live. (www.arksmusic.com)

By Nate Daly

10/2007