Rising from the ashes of the early new millennium band Audiovent, Agent Sparks is striving to make a name for itself as the group releases its debut album “Red Rover”. Co-lead singer Ben Einziger and bassist Paul Fried were the members of Audiovent, who looked to create something different than what they did in that band.

They enlisted L.A. singer-songwriter Stephanie Eitel, to give them a dual lead vocal sound, in which the two would trade off vocals. In case that voice sounds familiar, Eitel was the female backup singer on the huge Weezer hit, “Beverly Hills”, where her voice shines on the record.

Leadoff track “Waving By” is a Pixies style jam where Einziger echoes Frank Black, and creates a sound reminiscent of the early days of the alternative scene. The Pixies’ influences is even more evident on the first single “Polly Anne”, where Eitel sounds a lot like the Pixies lead female singer, Kim Deal. But Eitel delivers a more perky tone to her voice, as where Deal’s was more somber throughout her sound and lyrics.

On tracks like “Face The Day”, and “Maybe Tomorrow”, the band infuses a pop sensibility into their alternative sound. But the band mixes up the sound on tracks like “Razorhand”, where the wall of guitar sound makes it a standout track on “Red Rover”. The guitar sound is quite pronounced, as it was nurtured by producer Mike Einziger (yes, Ben’s brother and guitarist for Incubus).

Since forming two years ago, Agent Sparks has already toured with bands like 30 Seconds to Mars and Fall Out Boy. This fall, the band will be touring with 90’s alt-rock hit makers Veruca Salt for a club tour. Agent Sparks will be sure to give the reformed band a run for their money as they set out to make a name for themselves in the world of alternative rock.

So, if you are looking for some new rock that forges their own sound, but is an ode to the work of bands like the Pixies and Dinosaur Jr., give Agent Sparks a try.

Agent Sparks’ debut album “Red Rover” is out now. Agent Sparks will play with Veruca Salt at the Hayloft Liquor Stand in Mt. Clemens on September 30th.