Circles
While most of today's retro-inspired bands seem to go channel their garage rock instincts, the Autumn Defense take a different, understated approach. Led byWilcobassist John Stirratt and multi-instrumentalist Pat Sansone, the group creates a soft-hued album of reflective ballads, softly strummed acoustic guitars, and gorgeous harmonies. This is retro as heard through classicBeach Boys,Harry Nilsson, andBreadrecords, but it offers some surprisingly refreshing rewards. "Written in the Snow" is a slow-motion, ballad take on Wilco'sBeing Thereoutput; "Iowa City Adieu" sounds like a meeting of the minds between thePernice Brothersandthe Smiths; and "Circles," the album's closer, seems to bring all these disparate folk-pop elements together. All told, it's both bittersweet and beautiful.--Jason Verlinde