It's a Bit Complicated

But the band hasn’t found a way around their central problem: The songs lack variety. It wasn’t such an issue on their debut because the sample was so limited, but now we know too well what to expect. Their particular formula makes it tough; Argos’s spoken, thickly accented delivery doesn’t exactly have a vast range of expression, and their punk-influenced emphasis on simplicity limits what they can do dynamically. Only two records in and despite their catchy tunes and obvious talents, they’re starting to sound tired. Can they find a way to be something more than just a particularly bright flash in the indie-pop music pan? It remains to be seen, but for now I’ll enjoy It’s a Bit Complicated’s smarty-pants snark--for at least another week or so. --Matthew Cooke