iTunes’ darling Jet has discovered a way to avoid the sophomore jinx: improve.

“Shine On” is a pure 70’s rock record. The distorted vocals, brief songs and springy keyboards littered throughout are a step forward from the AC/DC obsession that plagued “Get Born.”

Jet’s vocals are still forgettable, but the band does achieve a few harmonies that even John Lennon and Paul McCartney would be proud of. Speaking of the Beatles, the influence on this record is massive. “Kings Horses” is vintage “White Album” balladry and the title track is right off of “Abbey Road.” Jet’s hooks are not particularly interesting but they do a great interpretation of the British Invasion sound, and when members do write a worthy hook (“Shine On,” “Eleanor,”) the band sounds like it is ready to become the world’s next premier rock outfit.

The album’s production is nothing to write home about. The instruments are clean but the cymbals are over-mixed and Cameron Muncey’s voice sounds flimsy without background vocals or harmonies. The guitarists, on the other hand, achieve a great 70’s sound (think AC/DC with a little more distortion,) that cuts through the mix easily and adds sparkle to the solos. Guitarists Cameron Muncey and Nic Cester are capable players but only spit out a few leads. Jet’s songs would be benefit from Muncey and Cester taking more chances with their guitar playing.

The band has the good sense to steal only the best from influences: The Beatles’ harmonies, The Rolling Stones’ messy arrangements and wardrobe ideas courtesy of 1970’s pop outfit Pilot. Shine On is a strong sophomore effort but the band is capable of much more.

Keith Beebe is a music critic for the Northern Star