Wolfmother: Wolfmother

Herald rating: ****

If only Wolfmother were the ones to take the Oz rock crown to the world a few years ago instead of Jet. While Jet are AC/DC-meets-Maroon 5, Wolfmother are Black Sabbath-meets-AC/DC cavorting back stage with Joan Jett and Led Zeppelin.

You could see them as a bunch of brash Aussies wearing their influences far too easily on their sleeve. But they do it so well, and the songs unfold in a ritualistic way.

At first it seems pretty basic, with opening track Colossal, which includes the first appearance of the band's great organ of doom, and Woman, being typical balls-out screamers.

But epic power, a fine voice, and an organ can go a long way in rock'n'roll. And White Unicorn and Where the Eagles Have Been are where things get more loopy. It's like the end of a day of worship at the feet of Wolfmother, and their followers are really letting their hair down.

Don't write them off as rip-offs, just enjoy. They might be more suited to the early 70s, but check Wolfmother out at the Big Day Out - 7pm Green Stage - to see for yourself.

Label: Modular