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The road that leads to the top of the pops

From the band that makes Gary Lightbody (Snow Patrol) cry, comes the single that makes Michael Stipe think of "pure sex." This is The Secret Machines with the remarkable 'Road Leads Where Its Led', a rollicking-great ride through four minutes or so of wonderful song-writing, gorgeous melody and pace, and memorable hooks galore.

"We're just trying to make music that connects with people, connects with the cosmos and connects with the gods." Explains drummer Josh Garza, and I do suspect that God is a big fan, because this music is undeniably great. It's big and spatial and memorable and, above all, fun. Yes, The Secret Machines will find their way onto the road that leads to the top of the pops, having already crept into the Top 40, and soon they'll be joining the likes of The Bravery and other new big-breakers to quite deservedly get the recognition that's waiting for them.

With the backing of giants like Mr. Stipe, this band have obviously done something right, from listening to 'Road Leads Where Its Led' alone, you'd be hard-pressed not to immediately become a fan. The Secret Machines have arrived to kick some ass and it looks highly probable that they're here to stay.