SLOWLANDS >> NEVER WAS THERE A TOWN. SLOWLANDS 2006 Slowlands is not just a band. As best described by its members, it's a young country. It was born in the cracks of a wooden table, under an electric fireplace somewhere in a Long Island, NY, basement. It grew up under an overpass in the wilds of the Brooklyn sprawl. And now it invades neighboring cities, towns, and villages with the release of the wonderful debut album, Never Was There A Town.   Garnering a good deal of positive buzz in the New York City music scene through ultra-effective live performances, the group's 11-song, independently released record also demands attention. Sonically gorgeous and robust in melody, Never Was There A Town is an ideal sonic mix of raw indie flair, pop accessibility and innovative writing. Singer/ songwriter/ rhythm guitarist Josh Hayden Kolenik's smooth vocals, poignant lyrics, and acoustic-driven compositions provide the foundation for the sound, while topnotch musicianship from bassist Joe Baptista, drummer Nick Brzoza, and lead guitarist Ryan Heyner--not to mention seamless production at the hands of Shane Stonebeck--give the tunes their full energy. Among the most captivating tracks on this work: "Listeners Dilemma," a get-in-your-car-and-drive tune with a ripping harmonica crescendo; "One More Fire," one of the fastest songs on the disc, full of powerful guitar work and thought-provoking lyrics; "Crooked Crown," which brims with infectious acoustic strumming, vintage organ, and socially conscious words; and "Eisenstein," a story that's both dreamlike and redemptive, while backed with a powerful string ensemble.   So regardless of whatever small country they may represent, Slowlands has the talent and energy to provide the next big sound for a nation of listeners. Visit them online at www.slowlands.com and buy Never Was There A Town. You won't be disappointed. By Mike Fish

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