It’s been about four years since Allen Clapp and his band The Orange Peels made a new record, but it’s a welcome return after label hopping lately. The album really is a look into the future by looking back over the past, through sharp guitars, lush melodies and strong rhythms that drive each track. The opening track “We’re Gonna Make It” is full of driving drums and indie pop guitar strums that offers hope for these trying times. Next, “Seaside Holiday” is a shimmering piano track that is almost straining to be positive. Good thing we get less glossy on “Shining Like Stars” with a great distorted guitar lead that approaches greatness here, it’s my favorite track. Piano pop is always a treat, and with “Birds of A Feather” it comes with hand-claps and harmonies. The Sgt. Pepper-like “Emily Has Told Me Why” is another highlight here that floats on air with layers of guitars and dense orchestral backdrop. If you are looking for power pop that visibly shines with west coast sunshine, look no further. Clapp has a stable of veterans assisting here: Oed Ronne (The Ocean Blue) on lead guitars, electric sitar and vibes, Jill Pries on bass guitars, Bob Vickers (The Incredible Vickers Bros.) on drums and John Moremen (the Roy Loney Band) on guitars. Add to this the meticulous studio work and it’s all worth the effort here.

My Space | Orange Peels site | Aimee St | Amazon

Review Disclosure

Corin Ashley (bass player for The Pills) made this album a few years ago, and I’m surprised it fell under my radar at the time. Opening with the Lennon inspired “Theme from The Brill Bedroom” it makes a big splash with “Gin and Panic,” one of the best George Harrison songs that George never wrote. “File Me Under Regret” is good Let It Be-era Beatlesque song that is performed with conviction and attention to detail. The lighter acoustic tracks like “Foolproof” and “Being Twelve” has a tinkling banjo that mirror the type of chord changes and pop sensibility of Mike Viola or Paul McCartney. Another highlight is the bouncy “Ladybug” with tight “la la la” harmonies and a hook in the chorus that won’t let you go. The slower “Your Moment of Weakness” is another warm melodic ballad that recalls David Mead. It’s all good, even the ukulele strum of the confessional “Daddy’s Song.” Overall, this debut is superbly crafted pop music that definitely belongs your collection. Corin also made a huge impression kicking off IPO in Boston and he is currently crafting a follow up at Abbey Road studios. I for one can’t wait for it.