Trippy rockers Wand bust out of the starting gate with “Setting,” which recalls ‘60s classic “Pictures of Matchstick Men,” and it just gets better from there. This release combines and freshens influences from Neil Young, Jerry Garcia, Television, Sonic Youth and Stereolab, but retains a creamy and dreamy center of its own. Cory Hanson’s slightly adenoidal vocals recall Jeff Buckley’s phrasing, and their newly expanded lineup is a delight. Selections range from electronic interludes to heartfelt ballads to extended rave-ups, and the production captures the ever-shifting dynamics. The best psychedelic release of 2017! Yes, you DO want this now!
Wand - Plum (9/10)
