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Jun 08, 2010 Web Exclusive By Aaron Passman

Standard Fare probably don’t rate in the history of poorly named bands, but theirs is still an apt moniker. Based out of Sheffield, U.K. (home to the likes of The Human League, Pulp, and Arctic Monkeys, among many others) the trio got their handle from a sign on a city bus, but it’s also a fitting descriptor for their sound: the usual influences abound, offering up a generic, if still pleasing pastiche of modern indie stylings.

The star of the show seems to be vocalist/bassist Emma Kupa, taking the lead on the bulk of the tracks on the group’s debut. She’s a pleasing presence with a strong set of pipes, though she over-sings on nearly as many tracks as she knocks out of the park. Among the disc’s best moments are opener “Love Doesn’t Just Stop,” an ode to abrupt breakups and mindless romantic departures and “Philadelphia,” a bouncy, energetic plea in a long-distance relationship.

It’s a safe bet there’d be no band without Kupa, but her two counterparts—drummer Andy Bez and guitarist/vocalist Danny How—still hold their own. For his part, How gets some of the disc’s best numbers, including the jangly “Secret Little Sweetheart” and the pop-punk-inspired “Edges & Corners.”

Standard Fare too often come across as paint-by-numbers indie-pop, but The Noyelle Beat is chock full of enough winning moments and youthful exuberance to merit high expectations for a follow-up. (www.myspace.com/standardfare)

Author rating: 6/10