At the danger of my indie cred, I’m going to admit that I’ve never been a significant fan of Annuals. At least not considering that after “Be He Me” their very first record on the Ace Fu label. That release was amazing, however the next two were a little tepid as well as twee. however now, with “Count the Rings,” the band roars back with sophisticated, gentle, Yes-like indie pop that genuinely breaks new ground. They handle a “big” noise while never seeming like anything other than a little band. It’s intimate however majestic–important however not self-indulgent. creative as well as catchy however not as well wise to alienate the listener. as well as finest of all, it’s not twee.
This band hasn’t sounded this great in years.
Eyes in the Darkness