June Gloom, led by BC native Cameron Purvis, has locked onto a special kind of charm. On December 17th, the band released their new LP, Wonderland in Calgary.
Purvis' vocals can be sweet and smooth, but he aptly switches into high gear to rock out righteously. June Gloom is sure to please fans of Cake, The Trews, Counting Crows and Sloan.
Wonderland begins with Pw134, a short allusion to Aphex Twin.
The next track, 'Believe' is witty and full of intrigue. A fun, yet earnest examination of modern superstition. Think power pop with an appropriate hint of gospel.
'Cabrini-Green' is one of the catchiest power ballads you will ever hear. It tells the tale of a failed Chicago Housing Authority public housing development with the heart of everyman: "Cabrini-Green, the American dream".
'Omaha' is a love song about a man searching for the woman he still loves in the largest city in Nebraska. Listen for an awesome Elliott Smith-esque interlude.
'If I Had A Bike' is a heart-warming duet, displaying the most pleasant pop of June Gloom.
'Guadalajara', 'Fool's Gold' and 'Sometimes' possess feel-good sentimentality that will make you want to start the album from the beginning again and again.
Wonderland deserves respect and enjoyment from mass audiences. It's only a matter of time before June Gloom meets its fortune.
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John Tanner