I’m crazy about Fine China’s bassist, Greg Markov. Schoolgirl crushes aside, he’s also in one of my top ten current bands. Singer and guitarist, Rob Withem quests for perfect pop songs, with Markov, Josh Block on keys, and Thom Walsh on drums. Their slick 2000 release proved their reliability in providing solid songs and memorable hooks. While the synthesizers and New Wave dance beats have been diminished, the Chinese boys have written mature songs that fly out of the previous pigeon-holes.

Somewhat like their early work on Velvet Blue Music, the tried-and-true rock line up takes center stage. Salient guitars compliment thick bass lines and punchy drums. Rather than saturating every song, lingering synthesized elements find more poignancy as well-placed accents. It can’t be denied that Fine China’s sleeves are adorned with influences, but one can’t fault them for studying under the indirect tutelage of greats like Marr & Morrissey, Chrissie Hynde, Robert Smith and Bernard Sumner. Like a puzzle waiting to be completed, YMMHM finds its central piece in “You Were a Saint.” Building off that pivotal feeling, others like “Hug Every Friend,” “Don’t Say Nothing” and “Forget the Experts” provide paving stones on Fine China’s path to recognition.