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*** Moonpools and Caterpillars

LUCKY DUMPLING

(EastWest/Elektra)

Don't be fooled by their goofy name. Moonpools are a fresh, energetic band whose pop-based songs are loaded with personality. "Hear" (now part of a Volkswagen commercial) has an earnest message: "Simply doing what you feel is the best way not to go wrong." That they can make such sentiments convincing is a testament to their music. Vocalist Kimi Ward Encarnacion's swoops and chirps are a cross between a carefree Natalie Merchant and Björk minus her elfin quirkiness. In a recent live date at the Paradise opening for Drivin-N-Cryin, she was a nonstop tornado of energy, contorting and windmilling à la Pete Townshend.

On "Ren," Jay Jay Encarnacion's opening guitar passage eerily parallels the Cranberries' "Dreams." The band quickly leave the ethereal path of the 'Berries for a peppy mid-tempo song about post-break-up confusion, and a break-up never sounded so good. Other details will make you crave summer drives with the top down: the unexpected "Lowrider" harmonica riff on "Summertime," and "Traveling Song": "Spit sunflower seeds out the windows and sing the best songs from the Jackson 5!" Moonpools are on the cute and whimsical side, but they're also irresistible.

- Liz Rourke

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