{^Definitely Maybe} manages to encapsulate much of the best of British {\rock & roll} -- from {$the Beatles} to {$the Stone Roses} -- in the space of 11 songs. {$Oasis}' sound is louder and more guitar-oriented than any British band since {$the Sex Pistols}, and the band is blessed with the excellent songwriting of {$Noel Gallagher}. {$Gallagher} writes perfect {\pop} songs, offering a platform for his brother {$Liam}'s brash, snarling vocals. Not only does the band have melodies, but they have the capability to work a groove with more dexterity than most {\post-punk} groups. But what makes {^Definitely Maybe} so intoxicating is that it already resembles a greatest-hits album. From the swirling rush of {&"Rock 'n' Roll Star,"} through the sinewy {&"Shakermaker,"} to the heartbreaking {&"Live Forever,"} each song sounds like an instant classic. [The album was also available with bonus tracks.] ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide