December is usually a lean period for new releases as the charts are dominated by greatest hits compilations. Thankfully, at least independent labels continue to release records without the usual fears of competition and when that music is of the quality of The Illiterati's first record, it's the perfect antidote to blatant commercialism. Quirky electronica/indie rock is the name of the game here with all songs written, recorded and performed by Florida's Jesse Caedington over a two-year period. The main criticism of the album is there's simply not enough of it - six of the eleven tracks clock in at under three minutes. Nevertheless, 'Flower Girl' and 'The Loveliest Eyes' possess a lovely, singalong quality that makes sense of the Badly Drawn Boy comparison whilst 'Car' and 'Be My Echo' recall the heartfelt pop of French Kicks. Cutting out a few of the pointless instrumental interludes, there's a fine mini album lurking within.