With their third album, 'King of the Beach', California outfit Wavves present a collection of undeniably catchy punk-pop tunes all shrouded in static, snowy noise.

What is it about "noise" that's so freakin' trendy? Throw a bunch of grungy distortion and reverb over everything and ta-da - instant cool points. So has been the case for Wavves, the musical project of San Diego native Nathan Williams, who likes to disguise the inherent pop nature of his tunes by making them that bit more difficult to listen to. Even those that like their music as grizzly, crackly and guttural as possible may find certain parts of 'King of the Beach' a little grating, not least the most annoying laugh in the world EVER, which opens the self-deprecating 'Idiot'. Thankfully, the tunes underneath the noise are pretty darn infectious.

Often, Wavves' hazy distortion adds little to already dynamic punkish guitar tunes like the childishly summery title track and the frantic 'Post Acid'. But elsewhere it's utterly central to the character and vibe of the songs. 'Mickey Mouseis a prime example. While Wavves often channel the Beach Boys and similar surf pop, here more than ever it's done in a similar way to Animal Collective, blending high pitched vocals and sweet harmonies with electronic loops and ragged guitars. Closer 'Baby Say Goodbye' is a particular highlight, also drawing on inspiration from 60s girl groups with that classic Ronettes 'Be My Baby' beat and a chorus of Sha La Las. It may outstay its welcome ever so slightly, but that's the nature of this album - it can a bit of a battle, but in the end it's a triumphant one. Basically, if you like your music on the gritty side of fun, then 'King of the Beach' is for you.