In this column I review the latest releases from the Greenberry Woods and singer Sherri Harding.
Title: It's All Good, Sugar... (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Jellyfish, Badfinger, Jason Falkner, Big Star, Psychic Rain
Tell me more: Not only have the Greenberry Woods returned after an extended hiatus of 30 years via the new 12-track disc It's All Good, Sugar..., but the Baltimore-based indie pop/alt-rock troupe sounds like they never took a day off. The album features a parade of great originals bolstered by top-tier lead vocals, melodic songcraft, tight arrangements, stellar vocal harmonies and emotional resonance. Indeed, founding members/twins Brandt Huseman and Matt Huseman along with Ira Katz, Paul Krysiak and Joel Parsons have released one of the great albums of 2026. The instantly-infectious opener "Summer Song," 80's-minded tuneful nugget "Waiting 'Round For Something To Go Wrong," reflective "Whenever You Want Me Too" (the latter a bona fide piece of ear candy perfection), and rocking "Lame Love Letter" are early standouts on the album. The LP's undeniable charm continues with the Baroque foray "On The Day We Drowned," poignant "That Won't Make You Love Me" (the latter a track that particularly hit home with yours truly), lovely "Leave The Light On" and irresistible album closer "December Boy." There is not a wasted moment on It's All Good, Sugar..., an incredible return. Information: bigstirrecords.com.
Title: Storyland (Instant Replay Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Ruthie Foster, Janiva Magness, Mavis Staples
Tell me more: Fans of the countless great recordings to come out of the legendary Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama will be thrilled with songstress Sherri Harding's latest album Storyland. Armed with a rich and expressive soprano, Harding and a cast of terrific musicians shine across the LP. While the album was recorded in Ottawa, there are strong and definite ties between Harding and Muscle Shoals (indeed, the Muscle Shoals Horns recorded their parts in Alabama for the project). Harding's signature vocals enhance the songs and arrangements across Storyland. The soulful opener "All Around The World," Southern blues-styled foray "Down In The Shoals," emotive duet with Jeff Rogers titled "Throughout It All," and electric blues burner "Rainy Day" (the latter featuring some sharp guitar work from Kelvin Holly and Robert Farrell) are early standouts on the 11-track disc. The jazzy "Dark-Eyed Junco," soulful "Bad Weather," gorgeous piano ballad "Tell Me You're Mine," and the rousing title track propel the album on its last half. Information: sherriharding.com.
Robert Kinsler
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