Triggers mix of classic rock hooks and modern rock attitude merge together, creating a snotty update of Cheap Trick-esque power-pop on their first full-length Smoke Show. Triggers have cut their teeth in the local Pittsburgh scene since they formed in 2005, winning over fans with their energetic live shows. They released their first EP Elude the Suits in 2007. Since then they’ve polished up their rough edges, both in terms of their music and production values. For Smoke Show, Triggers hooked on with producer John Hiler, whose long resume boasts such well-known acts as the Smashing Pumpkins and Danzig.

The talent in this band is showcased as soon as the poppy opener “Anyone at Anytime” kicks off. Singer/guitarist Adam Rousseau’s vocals have an impressive range touching melodious falsettos. The vocals are well suited to Triggers’ brand of electro-power-pop. Songs like “Contagious” and “How Do I Get to the Roof” are evocative of Panic! At the Disco or The Killers at their roughest. Fans of hard-edged modern dance-rock shouldn’t pass this release up.

(Anomaly Records, 5419 Hollywood Blvd Suite C327, Hollywood, CA 90027)