Peter Baldrachi “Slow Recovery”
Boston musician Peter Baldrachi explores the country genre with his latest LP, as only a few tracks could be considered power pop. The opening title track certainly fills that requirement; a rich production filled with snarling guitars and blaring horns. Next, “People Don’t Change” is an effective ballad with steel pedal guitar twang, and “Seasons” adds piano and some harmonies to the mix.
“In My Heart” is more poetic, and as a lovelorn troubadour Balderachi succeeds here. “Side By Side” returns to the rock side briefly, but the remainder of the album is mid-tempo country songs. “Killing Time” is another winner here, the compelling chorus tells of “missing you and wishing you were here.” Something about it feels like early Mike Nesmith in parts and it is definitely music that deserves to be heard.
The Sunchymes “The Sands Of Time”
The UK based band The Sunchymes continue their fusion of late ’60s psychedelia and power pop just in time for summer. Starting with “Emily Layne” and “She Waits For Your Smile,” they have the same elements; jangling guitars, echoing percussion, and multi-tracked vocals. Stylistically it’s very familiar.
Thankfully the songwriting gets better as we dive deeper; “I’ve Got A Vibe” is a terrific sunshine pop single and the layered vocal harmonies are a highlight. The catchy “Telepathy” is like The Byrds and The Wondermints combined, with great chord progressions. “Down At Sunchyme Bay” and “Sometimes” are pure Beach Boys pastiche, and this is what The Sunchymes do best. Additional highlights include “Try,” “Meet The Seeker” and “In A Century’s Time.” Fans of the retro-styled power pop will want to pick this up for sure.