Spanish for 100's self-released debut, Newborn Driving, is a barrage of varied influences with Sunny Day Real Estate inspired vocal harmonies and post-punk melodies. Unlike a lot of bands nowadays, they take a unique approach to the seventies inspired rock ideal, moving it into the 21st century; it is a strong melding of the sound of the two generations, but could really have benefitted from not being released in 2003, when so many bands were striving for the same sound.

Rhythmically the album is creative and appealing, if a tad repetitive; impressive guitar work and poppy rhythms litter the 10 song release, creating a solid beginning-to-end experience which is never boring, but is sometimes overwhelming. The songs end up coming off as truly enjoyable, however; good rock 'n' roll, fun and energetic. Unfortunately, some of that energy seems to be lost on the record, but it definitely gives the impression that this would be a great live band to see.

The production is impressive, produced and engineered by Phil Ek (Built to Spill, Modest Mouse), and the record definitely benefits dramatically from it. Though a strong debut, and definitely a fun record, the band seems to be striving for something that they are well on their way to, but perhaps haven't quite reached yet.

-Dave Mandell