Visitors to Domino’s label headquarters in the UK have been known to remark that they play Arctic Monkeys a lot on the office stereo. A lot as in on repeat. It’s probably a situation replicated in TVT Records’ NYC base, with The Cinematics in place of Sheffield’s finest as the workplace music of choice.

Whilst the labels’ motives are no doubt driven by the desire to promote their respective artists, you can’t help thinking there’s something else going on. Namely, that the Monkeys and Cinematics share a Pringles-like quality. I.e once you pop (the CDs on the stereos), you just can’t stop (listening to them).

Depressed at being labelled the “new Franz Ferdinand” by lazy Sassenach journalists, they have only themselves to blame. Yes, the tag largely derives from the fact both groups are based in Glasgow. It’s similarly true, however, that both bands mine similar influences, with obvious nods to Joy Division and Gang of Four.

Above all, though, The Cinematics, like their youthful counterparts south of the border, White Rose Movement, have their parents to thank. For singer and guitarist Scott Rinning, drummer Ross Bonney, guitarist Ramsay Miller and bassist Adam Goemans were blessed in having parents with quality record collections. Ma and pa, you’re a star, each and everyone of you.

Don’t worry, you won’t need to visit New York to hear The Cinematics as A Strange Education looks set to be the sound of 2007. Coming soon to a stereo near you. The Cinematics, with built-in surround sound.

(4/5)