The June Brides "A January Moon" c/w "Cloud" (Slumberland/Occultation)

Last year, in our interview with Phil Wilson, we asked why he decided to release his first new material in decades under his own name, and not as the moniker he is best known for, his band The June Brides. He replied, with his typical humor, that “it would have been absolutely easy, and made absolute sense, to come back as The June Brides. So, naturally, I went the other way!” Well, maybe our little chat inspired him, because his newest release isn’t a solo recording…it’s a new June Brides single! First time in 26 years! And how does it sound? It sounds great! The A-side, “A January Moon,” is a wonderful slice of 60s pop, with harmonies underscored with tasteful easy-listening strings and what sounds like a sitar! Wilson’s in fine voice as well, with the catchy number sounding not unlike Cinerama. “Cloud” is a bit mellower, a ballad, not as catchy as the flipside, but not a lesser song for it, either. Since we feel like our little suggestion may just be partially responsible for the comeback, we shamelessly say, with full seriousness, “Full length, please, Mr. Wilson!” (Also, the single comes with a 10-track bonus EP that consists of the single, plus eight previously unreleased Phil Wilson songs. He’s the gift that keeps on giving!)