Stroller

Stroller is more of an all-star lineup featuring members who have supported Kim Richey, Josh Rouse, and Radney Foster, among others. And this debut EP soars with the title track, a no-nonsense roots rocker that sounds like a Southern fried Gin Blossoms before gaining a second wind during the bridge. But it's not all Americana rock, especially on the piano-driven "Love Is Alright" that is a mixed result in the vein of Train. When the group is gritty and dirty in terms of guitar riffs, they are onto something rich, as is the case with the gem "Janitor Man," as lead singer Joe Nicholson sounds confident about his mundane job. The drawl on "On to Somethin" oozes into a sweet and nicely polished Beach Boys or Odds arrangement. A bit of Neil Young circa Harvest Moon can be discerned in the ambling country ditty "Sunshine." The guitar solo also resembles Mike Campbell from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Unfortunately, with only six songs to impress, "Back Around" has the band just hitting its stride before it's over. "We're the next big thing," Nicholson sings in the song, a glimpse into what Stroller could be with a tad more refinement. ~ Jason MacNeil, All Music Guide