The Springfields - Wonder by Slumberland Records

When it comes to indiepop, few names are as respected as Ric Menck and Paul Chastain. Through years of collaboration in groups such as Velvet Crush, Bag O' Shells, Choo Choo Train and The Big Maybe they just about *were* the entire US indiepop scene, but it's as The Springfields that they made perhaps their best, most beloved records. Taking their cues from influences like The Byrds and The Hollies they created a sound that was as jangly and melodic as their inspirations, but marked by a unique songwriting voice, excellent tunes, and sterling arrangements. "Singles 1986-1991" collects the 5 singles they released on Sarah, Picture Book, Summershine and Seminal Twang and adds one extra tune, here on vinyl for the first time. From the Paisley Underground-aligned opener "This Perfect Day" through the perfect pop of songs like "Sunflower" and a clutch of savvy covers, The Springfields created a compact, flawless catalog that more than justifies its legendary status and this timely reissue.

Ric Menck: Lead Vocals, Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Drums
Paul Chastain: Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Vocals
Jeffrey Underhill: Electric Guitar
Eric Peterson: Electric Guitar
Wes Lachot: Bass Guitar
Buddy Judge: Electric Guitar
Michael Hausman: Drums

Recorded 1985-1991 by Wes Lachot, Willie Wells, Teddy Vosnos & Michael Hausman
Thanks to Clare Wadd, Matt Haynes, Brian Kirk, Fred Anderson & Jason Reynolds

All songs written by Ric Menck except:
Clown: Allan Clarke, Tony Hicks, Graham Nash
Are We Gonna Be Alright?: Matthew Sweet
Tomorrow Ends Today: James Beattie, Bobby Gillespie
Million Tears: Stephen McRobbie, Brian Taylor
Tranquil: John Charnley, Bill Charnley