Up From Down Under

Author: Glen Cambea

Not since the heyday of INXS and Men at Work in the ’80s has there been such a splash about bands from Australia. Here’s a guide to some of the acts making waves:

1. POWDERFINGER

CD: Odyssey Number Five (Universal)

Aussie version of: Britpop heroes like Oasis and Blur, with some fun-loving Aussie rockstar swagger thrown in.

Prospects: First single, My Happiness, already is climbing the rock charts, and the album is chock full of potential hits.

2. KILLING HEIDI

CD: Reflector (Universal)

Aussie version of: No Doubt, with punk tinge replacing Gwen and friends’ ska flavor.

Prospects: Videogenic teen singer Ella Hooper and guitarist Jessie Hooper will likely score some buzz with the jangle rock/power-pop hybrid Weir or the driving Mascara.

3 KASEY CHAMBERS

CD: The Captain (Asylum)

Aussie version of: Alt-country darlings like Shelby Lynne and Lucinda Williams.

Prospects: Cry Like a Baby already is getting Chambers attention on American stations. The Lucindaish You Got the Car also should get some play.

4.THE LIVING END

CD: Roll On (Reprise)

Aussie version of: Pop-leaning punks like Rancid and MxPx, with a healthy dose of The Clash.

Prospects: The catchy title track has landed the trio on the David Letterman and Conan O’Brien shows. The album (produced by Matt Wallace of Nirvana fame) will likely become a long-term staple on modern-rock radio.

6. MADISON AVENUE

CD: The Polyester Embassy (Columbia)

Aussie version of: Dance acts like Daft Punk and Modjo.

Prospects: Don’t Call Me Baby already is a dance floor hit, and Who the Hell Are You? recently hit No. 1 on the dance chart.