DADA”Puzzle”I.R.S. Records* * *Don’t let the group’s...

DADA

“Puzzle”

I.R.S. Records

* * *

Don’t let the group’s name fool you. Unlike the radical art movement of the ‘20s, this Los Angeles-based trio isn’t challenging convention.

Still, the guitar-driven folk-rock on this debut album is a refreshing reminder that alternative groups needn’t be loud or grinding to be good--and to be noticed. Dada’s varied landscape of intricate melodies and catchy hooks--which sound something like an American version of Crowded House or XTC--revolve around two-part harmonies and the edgy, imaginative playing of guitarist Michael Gurley and bassist Joie Calio.

The opening track, “Dorina,” is an ode to a barfly’s imaginary girlfriend, a little like Simon & Garfunkel jamming with Jimi Hendrix. And “Dizz Knee Land”--a college radio hit--is an anthem of societal alienation with sardonically sing-along lyrics: I just robbed a grocery store / I’m going to dizz knee land / I just flipped off President George / I’m going to dizz knee land.

The thick coat of recording studio veneer covers a little too much of the charming roughness the group exhibits onstage--but not enough to keep the promise from shining through.