Uh Huh Her

I’ve got to be frank: usually when I come across an all-girl band, it spells trouble for my auditory senses. But everything deserves a fair chance, so I thought I’d listen to L.A.-based Uh Huh Her’s Common Reaction with an unbiased ear — until I realised that one half of the electro pop band featured The L Word actress Leisha Hailey (who plays Alice). The actress and former girlfriend of k.d. lang? Now that spelled double trouble. But to my surprise (and relief), the record was actually good. It’s catchy without being cliché and well thought-out without sounding contrived. "Not A Love Song” pulls you in right from the beginning with its synth beats and flawlessly blended vocals, and the rest of the record never loosens its grip. I stand corrected. No boys required on this one.