And the United States is big, literally, in a way that most Europeans can't quite fathom until they get here. If you want the whole rock star package-the stadium-sized adoring crowds, supermodels backstage, private jet with gold-plated toilet seats-you have to conquer the American market. Every band since the Beatles has faced the same fact. Even now, in the downloadable, mashable, post-American century, a band can go only as far as its ability to connect with a certain audience can take it. No matter how much PR and payola a band might have behind them, and no matter how passionately the critics love you in New York-or in London-hype won't get you a spot next to Jagger and Richards in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Music critics, thankfully, don't get to make that call. Are they really the next Coldplay, a new Vampire Weekend? Or just another Kula Shaker, one more Next Big Thing that turns out to be a Flavor of the Month? It's also easy to wonder if TDCC has enough stones for the long haul. After a half-hour of lilting optimism, it's easy to wonder if the guy has ever had a bad day. Babyfaced lead singer Alex Tremble has a clear, strong, high alto, but shows a limited emotional range on wax. Tourist History-32 minutes of alterna-pop candy-is all jangly guitars and cascading harmonies, syrupy-sweet melodies over synthesizers in full-blown Depeche Mode. MORE ON MUSIC INDUSTRY: Jennie Rothenberger-Gritz: Adventures in High Fidelity: Nick Hornby and Ben Folds Record an Album Aylin Zafar: In Defense of Lauryn Hill Joe Fassler: Life According to Pete Seeger: No Computer, No Records, Just Singing
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