Not yer everyday Norwegian pop-punk band. Spielbergs aren't introspective, and they aren't much interested in their shoes. No, this is earnest, punchy fare that hearkens back to early emo (I'm looking right at you, Alkaline Trio) with shouted hooks backed up by bashing guitars.

Spielbergs This Is Not the End (self-released)

Really, that's about it. Spielbergs are a bit messier--and a bit poppier--than Nerf Herder or ALL or any of those nerdy caffeinated punk bands of the 80s and 90s. Which is also another way to describe the glorious days of emo's second wave.

Is this noisy? Yep. Fun? Yep. Pretty much calorie-free? Oh, yeah. Overconsumption will not affect your waistline, though it might addle your brain. I'm not entirely sure how this will stand up to repeat listens, but I'm on my sixth and it still sounds pretty great to me.

Following up on its excellent EP, this debut is encouraging. I'm not sure how long the fire will last, but it's lovely for now.

[Editor's note: the title refers to the somewhat astonishing fact that there are more Norwegian pop album reviews in the pipeline. Stay tuned.]

Jon Worley