CD Review: The Moons “Fables of History”

At times The Moons remind me of The Move, at other times The Kinks. I can’t decide what or who they sound like. Description of their new LP varies from blue eyed soul to psychedelic-infused 60’s music. Their second full-length, Fables of History, consists of glimpses of modern British life ala Ray Davies. Honest songwriting, great harmonies, excellent arrangements and top-notch vocals. There’s a great deal here to like.

Songwriter Andy Crofts obviously gets much of his inspiration for Fables of History from the great British songwriters of yesterday, especially Ray Davies. There are plenty of killer tracks here, starting with the bouncy, very catchy “Forever Came Today”, a song that will appeal to anyone with powerpop sensibilities. The acoustic beginnings of “Jennifer (sits alone)” lead us into a trippy, 60’s folk song with a dreamy quality to it. “Double Vision Love” sounds as if Mike Myers‘ Austin Powers should lip syncing in the video, followed by another fine acoustic number entitled “English Summer”.

The next track is a real treat for fans of The Jam as Paul Weller sings lead on “Something Soon”. My favorite cut though, is “Can You See Me”, a track with a definite Lennon-esque feel to it. Much like John Wicks did with The Records’ last LP, Rotate, Andy Crofts manages to show his influences on his sleeve while at the same time creating something totally new, totally original.

From start to finish, this is a very strong LP and one I would highly recommend picking up. I believe it is only available as an import at this time but suspect that it will reach distribution channels in the US soon….if there is any justice in the world. Which there isn’t, of course.

In the meantime, enjoy this video for the song Jennifer (sits alone):