Storrow hails from Montreal, and he says he's really influenced by 60s pop. His drums are positively Spectorian (I'm pretty sure the psycho copyrighted his insistent backbeat), but the overall sound is couched more in the 80s rediscovery of the 60s.

Chris Storrow The Ocean's Door (self-released)

So, more World Party than Zombies. And I would argue that's the better choice. It's always better to have more influences than fewer. But nomenclature aside, Storrow's songs are the treat here. His voice is relatively pedestrian, but he gives that ordinary instrument some lovely handcrafted settings.

Yes, you can see the strings. These songs are a bit clunky, but in a most endearing way. Those seams in the sound are a big part of the charm of this set. At times, it's easy to wonder when a song will take off. But when the piece eventually soars, the effect is breathtaking.

And after having heard this a few times, I think the better reference points are Joe Jackson and Elvis Costello--though in fitting with Storrow's intent, this is probably closest to Costello's collaborations with Burt Bacharach.

Instantly charming, but wait for the glow. It is overwhelming. An ultimately spectacular effort.

Jon Worley