World Leader Pretend

If World Leader Pretend sounds anything like Radiohead, it’s because lead singer and songwriter is a pen pal of Thom Yorke, who has offered his input on the group’s videos, music and direction. Which isn’t to say that this New Orleans group is without its own identity — Fit for Faded is a smart album full of unusual keyboard riffs, sporadic horns and the occasional exploitation of a drum machine. The intoxicated inspiration of Mardi Gras New Orleans may have faded by the time WLP reaches Kansas City, but a promising EP (Rubble Rousing Misspent Bouts) landing in March leaves little doubt that this band is improving.