The Grand Archives

While Seattle is famous for many things, sunlight isn't one of them. Yet illumination and warmth suffuse the self-titled debut from this Emerald City quintet. Dark times do not necessarily call for dark music. While singer/ guitarist Mat Brooke's previous ensembles (Band Of Horses, Carissa's Wierd) often shied away from light, he's changed direction with this band. Like the timeless classics of The Mamas & The Papas or The Turtles, it responds to the turbulent times of its genesis with hope, high spirits, and a sense of camaraderie.