THE QUARTER AFTER
Changes Near

It’s high time somebody re-seeded the once-bountiful fields of folk rock. Nothing so breathtaking has reared its head since the Hollywood heyday of the Byrds and Buffalo Springfield more than 40 years ago. Unlike onetime fellow L.A. scenesters Beachwood Sparks, the Warlocks and the Tyde, the Quarter After goes for frighteningly exact reproductions of the Sunset Strip legends rather than mere attempts at capturing their spirit. “Sanctuary” and “She Revolves” absolutely nail the Roger McGuinn/Gene Clark/David Crosby harmonies of the original Byrds, while “Counting The Score” and “Early Morning Rider” are the mirror image of Buffalo Springfield’s country-folk-rock. The small army of jangling 12-strings, both electric and acoustic, overdubbed here by Quarter After founders Dominic and Robert Campanella, might make McGuinn reconsider his 1972 edict that permanently retired the Byrds brand name. Whether McGuinn would want to take on these fervent disciples—much like Brian Wilson rejuvenated his solo career with letter-perfect live Beach Boys re-creations by the Wondermints and friends—who can say? But I’d sure as hell buy a ticket to hear it happen. [The Committee To Keep Music Evil, www.thecommitteetokeepmusicevil.com]

—Jud Cost