Steve Stoeckel 

The Power Of And

Big Stir Records

The guitarist from the Spongetones' first solo album is much more folk/rock than the band and as good as anything he’s ever done with them. Thoughtful lyrics, and good playing from him and those who guest on the album, make a nice album for quiet times.

Every song has something to recommend it, but a few deserve extra mention. “Laura Lynn” is a fast-paced look at unrequited love. “Mod Girl” is a rocker about an odd couple encounter that really did happen to Steve. “Whistling Past Graveyards” is a political song. “The Monsters Under My Bed” is a bittersweet tribute to Maurice Sendak, childhood, and growing up. “Skippy’s Parade” is an instrumental, and “Hummingbird” is about an encounter with one that really did happen.

This album is good to think to, and it’s nice to see him step out from the long- running North Carolina band and make something this fun, sweet, and contemplative.

Andrea Weiss