The Paper Cranes

The first of two shows by this BC band was a fairly thankless gig, being early in the night and unannounced in the Pop program — they replaced an unpopular local act that reportedly cancelled due to mental illness. But the quintet braved the nearly empty room and delivered their set with gusto. Anyone who bailed on Hot Hot Heat after their first album would appreciate the keyboard-laced power pop practiced by these fellow Victorians — not that it was terribly fresh in 2001, but if you’re game for an old flame, these kids light it up okay.