Devastating WaysSelf-released **

It took Kaplin almost a decade to record their first album. Sometimes it takes time and experience to hone your craft and gain confidence. It's all the more unfortunate, then, that the Dublin/Donegal band's debut is in dire need of further fine-tuning. Dreadful lyrics aside, there are several moments that glimmer with potential, but Warren Ahern and his bandmates sound confused by which musical avenue to pursue. Falling Down Your Stairs poorly mimics Nick Cave's Grinderman, while Rumble of Rosary hints at stadium-rock aspirations and a clutch of drippy ballads go for daytime radio airplay. Kaplan are most believable on the trumpet-infused desert rock of Frozen Sand and Stone Angels, but generally this is background music: some of it perfectly acceptable, absolutely none of it essential. kaplin.bandcamp.com

Download:Frozen Sand, Stolen Angels