It seems that there are some groups so stylized and so determined to make a certain sound work, that they are forever passed over by the mainstream. If there ever was such a band, theSTART sure appear to be it. A 2001 guilty pleasure known as "Shakedown!" was their legitimately entertaining and surprising debut, yet the group were unfairly written off by critics more willing to rest their laurels on already established acts such as No Doubt who were also employing similar 80's affinities to decorate a much poppier musical frame. Now theSTART once again return, after the well-received but virtually forgotten "Death Via Satellite" EP, with "Initiation", a stunning new effort that seeks not to reinvent, but to restructure the bands enthusiastic blend of glam-pop and post-punk for another go-around with today's fickle indie crowd.

Though their new wave affinity and pop sensibilities continue to be their distinctive trademarks, "Initiation" finds theSTART dedicating themselves to a raucous guitar-driven sound. Rather than serving as a perfunctory cog in theSTART's glamorous retro-punk machine, guitarist Jamie Miller has become the prevalent force for the band. His riff-based attacks adjust themselves to handle the brunt of the groups energy, allowing the inclusion of keyboards and synths to become more effective at emphasizing unique atmospheric textures without overshadowing the raw simplicity of a guitar/bass/drum design. This augmented approach favors a sleeker, more punk-rock based style that recognizes the necessity for pop appeal but insists on injecting it on their own terms.

Having finally found the perfect balance between the effervescence of yesteryear with a more modern hard rock edge, the band's recognizable sound has a confidence and accessibility it previously lacked. Miller's emergence as a load-bearing wall for the group's tower of power is hardly surprising, yet it is a pleasure to see all the pieces finally land in their corresponding slots for the first time in the band's career. Frontwoman Aimee Echo has a freedom on the mic that she previously lacked, venturing to new panoramic heights which Miller has so lavishly constructed. With "Initiation" it finally appears that theSTART have found what they have been looking for, a decadent rock 'n' roll experience that somehow balances the glitz of new wave with the grime of punk without overdoing either. One can only hope that this tremendous effort serves as a rebellious introduction for newcomers and converts alike rather than yet another unfortunate castaway relegated to cult status.