Jangle Band – Edge Of A Dream

It’s been a very good year for Australian Power Pop. For example, Michael Carpenter put out a great one with The Cuban Heels. Ain’t Nothin Left To Say is one of the year’s strongest albums. The On and Ons are recording their second LP as we speak. And, if you’re a fan of Byrds influenced guitar or the 12 string Rickenbacker, you’re sure to like The Jangle Band Edge of a Dream LP.

On Edge of a Dream, jangle is the order of the day along with Byrds-like harmonies and hooks galore. Sans the opening track, I couldn’t help but be reminded of one of my 90’s favorites The Blow Pops. And like Milwaukee’s favorite sons (The Blow Pops), Joe Algeri writes catchy melodies with the best of ‘em.

Ian Freeman’s lead vocals are a real strength from the opening through the final hook-filled track. With the help of Algeri and company, the harmonies are wonderfully Byrds-like, too. This is made immediately evident on “Love You Too”, and “Kill The Lovers”, a few of the album’s early tracks. The latter has as catchy a chorus as you’ll hear this year. “Another Light” has an early British Invasion vibe. The guys saved the best for last, though. “This Soul Is Not For Sale” is a start to finish hook and my favorite track on the album while “Exile on Murray Street” has an irresistible steel guitar twang.

You can pick this one up at Kool Kat Musik or in digital form on the band’s Bandcamp page.