Madleaf — “Sinners”

Athens, Greece: site of the first Olympics, the Parthenon and the four-piece rock band Madleaf.

“Sinners,” the albums title track, really starts the record right. Fully developed in sound, you’ll wonder why it’s not on the radio already. Watch out, Nickelback!

Oh, but don’t worry, this is not rock-lite. Skillful riffs are all over this record. The rhythm section is tight. The vocals beg to be sung along with, and if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! It is what it is, radio-friendly rock that needn’t be messed with, only enjoyed.The tune “Velvet” starts off with a little jangle then rips in full blast, never stopping.

Guitar solo and everything, this song tops out at just over three minutes of Athens best. Let me repeat myself: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Pop rock has a place in the world, too! Madleaf’s “Feed Me” goes straight for the punch. The hardest rocking song, it keeps things going with a driving beat and heavy guitar, while “Into the Sun” breaks things down a little with a slower vibe.

Madleaf is building off a history of solid pop rock that might get them the gold. So let me repeat it one more time — if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.