More Like Early June Than July

Surfacing for Air (Divanation Recs)

July

By Kory Wilcoxon

July blows through more like a summer breeze than sweltering heat, making music that is devoid of any heaviness or lethargy. The group passes through several musical styles, not trying to do more than they are capable of.

The high points are often as July easily moves from the 10,000 Maniacs-style flow of the title track to more somber tunes that are reminiscent of the Cowboy Junkies. The band is accomplished musically and handles their work with precision and lucidity.

Holding everything together is the sweet voice of Stacy Pushkar, whose vocal flexibility matches that of her band's. The lyrics are mostly melancholy and introspective, and usually provides suitable accompaniment for the intensity of the music.