After releasing one of my favorite short-format releases of 2025, Cleveland trio Xanny Stars make a glorious return with four new songs to fall head over heels for. The Take Shape EP is out now on 7″ via Just Because Records, and it absolutely nails the sweet spot of awesome alternative pop and garage power pop, where punch and melody are in perfect symbiosis.

First line on the record: “Lemon honey, sour sweet,” instantly followed by an aaaaaaaaah harmony. It’s played over a backbeat that is a head-bopper from the get-go. The EP has got three more hits like that, with no weak moments to be found. Xanny Stars make this stuff sound ridiculously easy. Which makes me wonder: is it time for Xanny Stars to start writing their breakout full-length?

But for now, essential single alert!

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp