The Oh Wells – Does The Sun Shine Vol. 1

There’s another highly anticipated album on the way from Brian Kerrigan and Ira Merril, aka The Oh Wells. In the meantime, they’ve released a handful of tracks from the aforementioned release this past August. Entitled Does The Sun Shine Vol. 1, it’s another fine collection of classic, back to basics pop.

While the Tacoma Washington duo’s past work has an Americana/folk-rock sound to it, there are tracks that distinctly fall within boundaries of power pop. Ian Merrill is a former member of Super Deluxe and the band’s producer, Ken Stringfellow (Posies, REM, Big Star) is power pop royalty so that should come as no surprise.

Bringing Back Memories

“Wondering’” is a wonderfully radio friendly track featuring an unforgettable melody and harmonies that make one want to join in. The acoustic “Make It Dumber” is a lyrical gem. The countrified “Feelin’ Kentucky (Start Again)” with its message of hope in a new beginning is an instant favorite. The change in the bridge section gives the piece a little extra something.

For those who prefer to rock out, there’s “Mad Honey” and “Auburn”. The former rocks to a pounding beat and hooky chorus. It’s got to be an awesome song to hear live. That said, if there’s any song here that brings back memories of Super Deluxe, it’s “Auburn”. A front to back hook, it’s one of my favorite tracks of 2024, hands down.

Get The Oh Wells’ Does The Sun Shine

The Oh Wells’ Does The Sun Shine Vol. 1 is available digitally through the band’s Bandcamp page, Apple Music and Amazon Music. It is not yet available on CD. The full album will become available in January of 2025 so expect physical product at that time.