Where has all the good old-fashioned, happy pop music gone? It's alive in QU, the most recent and mature album by indie pop-rock group Sherwood. Although their third full-length album differs from past albums, one can still expect the sunshiny, beach pop music associated with the California band. Sherwood definitely did not disappoint fans this time around.
QU is overflowing with fluid harmonies and danceable rock 'n' roll music, mimicking the legendary Beach Boys. The uplifting melodies promise smiles and boosted spirits. Although the guys throw a few slower, deeper songs into the pile, the quality never fails. Nate Henry, the lead singer and bassist, captures the feeling of each track with strong vocals, while the other members—Joe Greenetz (drums), Dan Koch (lead guitar, vocals), David Provenzano (rhythm guitar, vocals) and Mike Leibovich (keys, percussion)—provide the rest of the meat in the pleasant compositions. In addition to great instrumental parts, the lyrics prove Sherwood's imaginative writing ability.
""Maybe This Time,"" the album's first single, features a pulsing, rhythmic beat, riffing guitars and tremendous breakdown, but a few other tracks are catchier. The hook in ""You Are"" will undoubtedly get stuck in your head, and ""Around You"" has a memorable, frantic background rhythm. The repetitive ""Whoa, whoa, whoa"" chorus in ""Make It Through"" leaves an optimistic mark on the album. But, overall, ""Not Gonna Love"" is the best combination of all of Sherwood's positive qualities wrapped in one perfect package. With a splash of island, the song's mellow punch and, of course, infectious harmonies sum up what Sherwood is all about.
The addition of a few slower songs on the album help the pop group enhance their musical approach. The opening track, ""Shelter,"" highlights the group's well-blended voices with a hint of organ, setting up a haunting, churchlike outlook. The piano-fueled ""Ground Beneath My Feet"" starts out at a slower pace but quickly speeds up to a moderate tempo, and the voice-centered breakdown grabs the listener's attention immediately. ""Worn,"" an acoustic guitar-driven tune, features the voice of Molly Jenson providing another valuable layer.
When searching for an album to prance around to in your underwear, QU's selection of mostly lighthearted tunes are sure to fulfill this desire. The plethora of unforgettable harmonies and tinkling tunes come together to create the joyful jingles that are so scarce in today's music selection. The pop world needs to hear Sherwood's diverse talent and artistic creativity blossoming from this new album.
