"The Lateness Of The Hour" is the debut from Alex Clare and it's on mighty, mighty Universal Republic, and a definite keeper. Most of this is energetic, upbeat BritPop perfectly realized and also that perfect 3 a.m. speed freak soundtrack for scrubbing those long neglected bathroom tiles with a toothbrush. Clare has a strong, high voice - sort of like vintage Steve Winwood from the Traffic daze or a local equivalent would be Jonathan McEuen. Other times, Clare seems to be channeling Sly Stone - also a good thing - and "Too Close" will make you a fan of Mr. C., clearly a rock star to be.