The Meadows are Todd Herfindal and Kevin Houlihan, a breezy rock duo whose cinematic passion-pop shimmers along with great tunefulness. Sharing the lead vocals, which more often blend together in striking harmony, the two also split the bulk of guitar, bass, keyboard and songwriting responsibilities on this pleasing self-titled debut. Drummer Tommy Richard, of Herfindals prior group, Single, handles the bulk of the drumming, with Fraser Lunney, also of Single, adding bass to several numbers. Other assorted guests help fill out the sound throughout, with special note going to Tracy Spuehler (backing vocals, strings) and Rich McCulley (electric guitar, lap-steel) who each also claim co-writing credits on a few tracks as well. Their warm, radio-ready sound combines the epic sweep of The Verve with the rootsier qualities of The Gin Blossoms and never sags nor sours. -- Robinson, Miles Of Music (Single Recordings)
