The DeSotos – Cross Your Heart (Tailgator Music) New Zealand bands struggle desperately to make any international impact, and regrettably, The DeSotos will probably carry on that tradition. Their debut leans heavily on the roots of the Americana / roots rock tradition – they’re obviously enamoured with the recordings of The Band, Crazy Horse, Springsteen and Petty – but unfortunately, for their debut salvo of songs, they resist carving out a sound of their own. Although, individual tracks aren’t without appeal, “Greedy Man” and “Sat On A Mountain” spring to mind, and main songwriter, Paul Gurney knows his way round a tune. It’s likely that live, The DeSotos are a force to be reckoned with, especially with the calibre of musicians present – a special mention for keysman Ron Stevens - but unless we ever go to Auckland we’re unlikely to find out for sure. Hopefully their next record will raise the stakes. www.myspace.com/thedesotos Rob F. Next