Los Angeles-based duo
the Meadows don't just have all the right influences (
Pete Yorn,
Teenage Fanclub,
Ryan Adams, and the Jayhawks) in check on their self-titled debut, they've also got a stunning knack for songcraft. Boasting alternating frontmen
Todd Herfindal (ex-
Blue Sky Roadster and
Single) and Kevin Houlihan (formerly of
the Fundamentals and
Moontower), the pair join forces to assert -- through this resourceful and immediately charming 12-song cycle -- that they've spent enough time in almost-famous bands. From the heaven-sent swooning of "Been So Long" to the tender, reflective "Younger Yesterday,"
the Meadows' take on guitar pop -- bolstered by thumbs-up harmonies and ace arrangements -- can be as dazzling ("Turn It Around") as it is exhilarating ("Dreamer"). Highly recommended. ~ John D. Luerssen