Best-known for making an appearance on MTV’s reality show, “Laguna Beach,” the Messies are one of those unheard of bands all the kids are going for these days.

However, unlike many of these unsigned bands, the Messies are worth a listen.

With their not-so-unique tunes, it’s a wonder that pop-punk bands haven’t already gone out of style.

The Messies strive to not join those ranks.

Though they possess a sound that may have already exhausted some ears, the Messies are good enough musicians with a tight, catchy repertoire to leave others hanging around.

Following the likes of New Found Glory, Yellowcard and Blink 182, the Messies offer lyrics of lust-lorn teenage life put to your general pop-punk fare: simple two or three-chord riffs and overdriven guitar.

And of course, along with it comes the rebel must-have package: equal shots of confidence and humor.

The composition are overall elementary at the most.

What really packs the punch are the Messies’ live shows.

Live, the Messies exude an energy that will have the whole venue rooting them on, whether the audience likes the music or not.

Even with a few drinks sloshing in his stomach, lead singer Kelly Kidd still provides quality entertainment as frontman without having that obnoxious air that concert-goers are frequently met with from inebriated bands.

Crotch thrusts and booty shakes abound, Kidd dances his weird little way through the set, flanked by guitarist Russell Crane and bassist Shane Jordan (who also croons the harmony on certain songs), and with drummer Thomas Gallmeier rocking the skins with what seems like everything he’s got.

It helps to be attractive too.

With their song “Super Sexy,” the chorus of which goes: “You know I find you super sexy,” the power of suggestion alone may have giddy crush-prone girls in the audience grabbing their digital cameras and snagging a photo or two of the band.

Though the Messies haven’t yet reached fame, they remain busy people.

They play two to three shows a month at venues throughout Los Angeles. Catch them Wednesday at the Cat Club on Sunset Boulevard.

They are working on a second CD due out for June 2005.

The Messies are here to have an unabashed good time.

If their audience isn’t too critical, it won’t be long before this young band uncovers hype more contagious than the common cold.

On Repeat

What: “The Messies”: this unsigned band adds shots of pop elements to an otherwise punk sound, rendering easy listening for punk rockers.

The Band: Kelly Kidd, Lead, vocals; Thomas Gallmeier, drums; Shane Jordan, bass; Russell Crane, guitar.

Bottom Line: Already featured on MTV’s “Laguna Beach,” KIISFM 102.7 and XM Satellite Radio, these talented guys are set to step into the big leagues.

For more info: Http://themessies.com.