Perth band the Panics turn out fine guitar pop in the tradition of iconic Australian acts like the Triffids, the Church and the Gobetweens; catchy melodies, articulate vocals and atmospheric guitar evoking sprawling desert landscapes. Singer-songwriter Jae Laffer's confident, laidback singing has hints of Americana drawl and, coupled with the twangy guitar, gives a folky, alt-country flavour. In a good way.

After two self-titled EPs, the Panics released their debut album ‘A House on a Street in a Town I'm From' in 2003, which included some songs from the earlier EPs. Their second album ‘Sleeps Like a Curse' (2005) was written in England and recorded in Sydney and was nominated for a J Award. The Panics continue to evolve on their self-produced new album just out on Dew Process, ‘Cruel Guards' (2007).

Try a single off the first album, Kid, You're a Dreamer, and Twin Sisters, off ‘Sleeps Like a Curse'.