Connecticut-based six-piece Shirese has another album out, called Hardly Cricket, and it’s a pretty cool one. Bill Davidge, George Matthiessen, Kelly Filush, Matt Paolillo, Nicholas Serrambana and Seany Nuelle recorded eleven energetic and enjoyable songs that we should probably label as lo-fi garage psych, but they are distinguished by riffs reminiscent of Cheap Trick-esque classic rock from the 70s. The musicians kick off the new record with standout track New Music, which is right up our alley in terms of both lyrics and sound. Then they take various side roads, where behind every bend another surprise awaits, such as an exciting guitar duel or catchy whoo-hoo harmonies. There’s a lot to discover and enjoy here, and it’s all done so well.
Hardly Cricket is out digitally and on vinyl LP through Grapefruit Records and C/Site Records.