We Are ScientistsWith Love and SqualorVirginThree out of five stars

We Are Scientists is a bunch of pussycats-or, at least that’s what the cover of the band’s With Love and Squalor album suggests.

The album itself, however, suggests something else. With Love and Squalor is a rambunctious young effort from indie’s latest hype-generators. With a brand of reckless, dance rock similar to that of Hot Hot Heat, and lyrics full of punk simplicity, With Love and Squalor is a remarkably entertaining album.

Unfortunately, the thrills don’t last long-after a few listens, the spontaneity of the songs on With Love lose their appeal and the tracks are reduced to superficial choruses and catchy riffs.

But it’s fun while it lasts. The track, “Nobody Move, Nobody Gets Hurt,” though a bit too brash for an opener, is as infectious as it is danceable. On “The Scene is Dead,” singer Keith Murray’s vocals turn Billie Joe-ish, and coincidentally, the track is as catchy as anything off Dookie-and that’s saying something.

Though With Love and Squalor may afford a few thrills, overall, it’s not quite the cat’s meow the hype makes it out to be.

Marshal Hogan