You almost pity anyone starting a band in New York. But the city’s history is more of an asset than a burden to Qty, an intriguing duo on their debut album who expand to a foursome live. On songs such as Michael, singing guitarist Dan Lardner channels all his deadpan heroes – Lou Reed, Julian Casablancas – while lead guitarist and backing vocalist Alex Niemetz provides just-so solos. If you’re going to be this derivative, you’d better be good. Fortunately the pair’s observations swerve most cliches, and their sneery city sounds are tempered by indie-leaning boy-girl vocals. “I want salvation/ Just without any of that God shit,” they croon almost sweetly on Salvation.
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