CD Review: Kaiser Chiefs, "Employment" (Universal)

Leeds quintet Kaiser Chiefs are making a splashy debut in the U.S. with their appropriately titled album "Employment," a collection of songs reflecting everyday life from a working-class--and a bit pretentious--perspective.

Opening with the catchy tune "Everyday I Love You Less and Less," singer Ricky Wilson perfectly blends his bile-driven chant with fun, pop guitars and new-wave keyboards. Bratty hooks abound with songs like the anthemic "I Predict a Riot" and "Na Na Na Naa."

"Employment" is filled with ostentatious lyrics, and pop hooks reminiscent of The Kinks and Blur with a dash of Adam Ant.

This confident collection is rounded out by some fine production by Stephen Street (Blur, Suede, The Smiths).