21 Reasons

On its recently issued debut, January, the KC quintet 21 Reasons creates radio-friendly harmonic pop tinged with classic-rock influences. Acoustic guitars jangle, percussion toys rattle and the choruses are bigger than Sting’s ego. In less capable hands these ingredients can produce deathly dull chest-thumping anthems, but 21 Reasons has more in common with Dave Matthews and Counting Crows than it does with Hootie or his Blowfish. Vocalist Scott Brown is classically trained, but his clear, powerful voice isn’t remotely owlish, and strident numbers such as “Spirits Are Up” and “Half Life” gallop along with an unjaded abandon and carefree spirit. Formed in 2001, the Parkville-based outfit has amassed a small following through passionate, low-key shows and a smattering of local radio play. With January in stores, these regular dudes might find themselves moving beyond the hole-in-the-wall circuit.