Leave it to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, one of the coolest-monikered towns, to birth one of the best-named bands since Oh My God Look at the Size of that Beetle I Wonder if It's Poisonous. Dollops of Nico-inspired vocals and Steve Albini-style punch-and-scream pepper somewhat old-hat college guitar rock, resulting in a refreshing and catchy collection.

Strung throughout these spirited guitar tunes are solid harmonies that separate Congratulations from your standard bar band fare. Moreover, these Wisconsin kids know the value of push and pull, tension and release. Most songs are skillfully arranged so that they toy with the listener, luring you in with ever-spiraling power chords that vanish abruptly, leaving a void of whispering vocals and simple percussion. Some cuts, such as "Charity creeping around upstairs, pg. 265" (a title truly fitting for this band), offer brief respite from the six-string anthems. Acoustic and haunting, this cut twirls lumbering marimba with otherworldly drums to form a soundtrack for unmade David Lynch films.

Other cuts, including "Decide to Stay," shift into slow gear. Acoustic guitar and plaintive lyrics tell of lonely days and lost opportunities. Similarly, "The Shells" busts out the high school bells for a lilting, twee pop touch. Completing the smile-inducing effect are falsetto voices that chime as sweetly as the bells. Lest you grow too comfortable with the softer side of Congratulations, the Wisconsinites let this tune degenerate into grumbling, instrument-free aches that segue seamlessly into another guitar-driven tune. It's rock n' roll for people who like a little sweetness with their angst.