The Anderson Council “The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon”
The Anderson Council’s most recent album, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, offers a refreshing dose of memorable songs. This New Jersey-based band transports listeners on a mesmerizing sonic journey by skillfully fusing elements of the 60s British Invasion, psychedelic rock, power pop, and a dash of contemporary indie flair.
Opening with the captivating track “Tarot Toronto,” The Anderson Council sets the tone for the album, immediately immersing us in their lyrical alliteration and nostalgia-infused sound. The band effortlessly channels influences while adding its own power pop twist. “Alone With You” boasts a sing-along chorus with layers of vocals and guitars, another potential hit. “Million Miles A Day” and “Times on the Thames” both feature pulsating rhythms and catchy chorus making them instant earworms that beg for repeated listens.
Overall the music doesn’t get as densely fuzzy as previous albums (Although “Sunday Afternoon” is an exception). But it also allows the melodies to rise to the forefront. Overall, one of the best albums this year. Yes, it’s high on my list and super highly recommended.
Dennis Schocket “Weathervane”
Dennis Schocket (Starbelly) goes solo on this new adult-oriented potpourri pop album. It starts with a welcoming confessional in the title track that warmly greets you with its easy strum, and guitar solo. The bittersweet melody of “More Than Anything” is a richly produced ballad with its wonderful slide guitar leading the way. “Please Don’t Let Me Down” is a Jeff Lynne-ish rocker that feels a bit off, and I’m not sure why.
The mid-tempo ballads suit him much better, “Suddenly June” and “She Loves The Sun” are both melodic and wonderfully composed. The album explores introspective themes in tracks like “Love Untold,” and “I Forgive It All.” The bouncy “Madam Chaparral” is a big standout track, about a possible denizen of “Penny Lane.” It’s unsurprising that the Beatles’ DNA follows through with the sweet “Take Your Time With Me.”
Overall the production and mixing are excellent. The songs are more of a mixed bag, but with more treats here than I expected. Highly Recommended.
