When you’re a band from the U.K. trying to achieve the same type of stardom in the U.S. that’s been in your control in your home country, it’s almost like you are hitting the reset button on your career and starting anew. Fortunately for England’s The Hours, they already have the songs, moxie and charisma to make them darlings here in the States. The band recently released an EP, I Want More on Adeline Records shortly before the tour and this was their showcase the new tunes.

Opening for Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds at UCLA’s Royce Hall, The Hours played to what started as a 75 percent empty facility, but turned the 1,800 person room into their own arena. Songs were energetic and upbeat, and their attitude couldn’t be described as anything less than fantastic. The tour comes a year after their maiden U.S. release, It’s Not How You Start, It’s How You Finish, and these words were quite prophetic considering how the strength of their live show got stronger as their abridged 30 minute set wore on.

The band has long had roots in Britain (even having opening for U2), with some members having served in The Mescaleros, for those of you who don’t know, that was Joe Strummer’s band before he died in 2003. Singer/songwriter Antony Genn had complete control of the crowd from the jump. Throughout the night he was making jokes and political statements (dedicating a song to the 99 percent, a reference to the Occupy protests on UCLA’s campus that afternoon), yet keeping the vibe loose and fun. The Hours’ sound filled the room well and combines the best elements of Britpop, rock, indie rock and alt-rock rolled into one.

When their set finished, it felt like it was way too short, but The Hours were more than up to the task of opening up for Gallagher. With fun, catchy tunes and a sound that is a combo platter of Keane, Pulp and yes, Oasis, I can’t wait to see the band play in the U.S. on their next go-round.

Here’s the set list from The Hours show at UCLA:

I WANT MORE
NARCISSUS ROAD
WANNA BE HAPPY
SOUL MUSIC
ALI IN THE JUNGLE
PEOPLE SAY
MURDER OR SUICIDE