Shannon and the Clams: Gone by the Dawn

ShannonAndTheClams_LP2-300x300Opening the album with a groovy guitar riff and the use of a mellotron is how California trio Shannon and the Clams makes their first impression on their fourth full-length studio recording. Over the course of 40 minutes and 13 songs, doo-wop meets surf rock with an added splash of influence from early soul musicians. If you haven’t heard this group before, you are in for a real treat. Not only are the songs irresistibly catchy, they are well written and produced.

A highlight on the album is “Point of Being Right,” which incorporates a snappy back and forth between the guitar and clever lyrics. Another favorite is “Baby Blue,” which has swaying melodies and 1950s influenced chord progressions. This album features many tracks that stand out in a modern context while still doing a good job of not copying early pop groups. It mixes garage rock with pop standards and so much oomph. The same as it begins; the album ends with more mellotron and groove.

Recommended If You Like: Shangri-La’s, Peach Kelli Pop, The Ronettes

Recommended Tracks: 5 (Baby Blue), 3 (Point of Being Right), 13 (You Let Me Rust)

Do Not Play: None

Written by Rachel Bennett on 09/24/15