GUADALCANAL DIARY 2X4 (Elektra)

Unless 2X4 precipitates an unexpected commercial breakthrough, this super Georgia quartet gets my vote for most underrated act the second year in a row. Initial inspection reconfirms the Guads’ roots in ’60s guitar bands, an impression supported by groovy Don Dixon’s sparkling production. However, don’t expect soft-headed power pop—as singer Murray Attaway wails his li’l lungs out, the group recalls nothing less than the pre-Tommy Who on brash rockers like “Say Please” and “Let the Big Wheel Roll,” then shift to spooky atmospherics for the dreamy “Little Birds” and “3 AM,” a compassionate look at the ravages of alcoholism. Still not convinced? Try “Lips of Steel,” a sly retread of “Tomorrow Never Knows” bursting with tripped-out energy. Every note of this dandy disc crackles with a fierce confidence that’s downright thrilling. Smells like a classic to me. H.D.