Kolor are an independent rock outfit supported by former Beyond bassist Steve Wong Kar-keung. The band is cast in the same musical mould as Beyond, mixing rock and pop in an attempt to please both rock fans and Canto-pop enthusiasts.
Their debut Color is an album of guitar-driven pop-rock tunes. The music sounds like an inferior Beyond and the lyrics are substandard. But the band makes up for their shortcomings with a passion and sincerity that most mainstream releases lack.
The opener Raise Your Hands is a hearty celebration of rock 'n' roll. Like Beyond in their heyday, Kolor - comprising vocalist and guitarist Sammy So, drummer Michael Chu, lead guitarist Robin Law and bassist Ko Fung - are at their best when singing about social issues.
Highlights include the hilarious PTU, which portrays the crazy behaviour of Canto-pop fans, the heartbreaking Man under the Debris, which sympathises with the victims of war and natural disasters, and the fiery Exclusive Information, which is a stinging criticism of paparazzi.
Kolor also know a bit about romance. Reserve is a romantic ballad rich in emotions and proof of the band's ability to churn out catchy melodies which will do well on the pop charts.
Color is hardly a masterpiece, but the album's energy will grow on you.