Solid debut from Stones influenced band

While the band's spelling suggests they are of English descent, the Colour are actually from L.A. I first heard about these guys about three years ago from a friend who went to Biola University, a small Christian school where the band had formed. The band originally came up in the wake of the British rock revival scene that included the Strokes, The White Stripes and Hot Hot Heat. Since their forming, the Colour have released a few EPs that received little attention, and now, five years after forming, they've released their debut album, Between Earth and Sky. On the album they mix Rolling Stones-esque groove rock with elements of new wave to make a promising debut.\nThe most dynamic part of the band is lead vocalist Wyatt Hull, who sounds like a mix of Mick Jagger and the Cure's Robert Smith. His vocals also sound similar to those of the Killers' Brandon Flowers on Sam's Town, but Hull puts Flowers to shame. A competent backing band falls behind Hull's vocals, including lead guitarist Luke Macmaster and rhythm guitarist Davey Quon. They provide a classic groove rock sound that is reminiscent of '70s British blues rock. The riffs and grooves are nothing new but sound somewhat refreshing when supporting Hull's new wave vocals.\nBetween Earth and Sky opens up with "Can't You Hear It Call," which is the most apparently Stones-influenced track, with its hip blues guitar riff and bluesy backing vocals. This track is followed by two songs that were released on previous EPs, "Devil's Got a Holda Me," the first single, and the undeniable "Save Yourself." "Save Yourself" is the highlight of the album, with its mix of the band's signature sound with pop sensibility. This song is followed by the beautiful yet gloomy "Silver Meadows," which rings of their fellow L.A. indie rockers the Cold War Kids. However, after this point, the album loses its sparkle. Beside the exceptional "Black Summer," the rest of the record feels more like filler than anything. Maybe it's the novelty wearing off, but the end of the album is rather forgettable. Tracks like "You're A Treasure" and "Salt the Earth," while full of enthusiasm, heed little result. So while it is disappointing that this album isn't solid from start to finish, the few choice tracks show promise of what's to come. Between Earth and Sky is a hit-or-miss debut with hints of brilliance.