Just because a few newcomers in the rock world (cold stare in the direction of Jet) have soiled the names of a few classic bands doesn’t give critics an excuse to bash all acts wearing their influences as proud badges.

If done right, embracing influences on an album produces a worthy homage and also provides a solid foundation for a band to explore its own style.

Kasabian’s self-titled debut is not one of these albums. The band does, however, take much liberty in borrowing from its forefathers such as Primal Scream and The Stone Roses.

You can close your eyes and almost picture the multiple-angled shots of a luxury car gracing the screen as Kasabian’s “Reason is Treason” plays in the background.

The first third of the album sounds promising. “Club Foot” features a dirty bass line with a chorus sure to be enjoyed by the listener for at least a few weeks.

After five tracks, the album takes a complete nosedive into the garbled doldrums of uninspired rock ’n‘ roll. None of the songs possess any character or catchiness that the band desperately needs to make its sound work.

C’mon Kasabian, don’t give jaded rock critics any more fodder.