The vastly under-recognized Ours follows Distorted Lullabies, its major-label debut, with a 12-cut album that further demonstrates the compelling vision of singer/songwriter/ guitarist Jimmy Gnecco. Precious is more accessible to the mainstream-modern rock fan, with a likeable cover of “Femme Fatale” and containing less of the moodiness that permeated Lullabies. “Kill the Band,” another prime example of Gnecco’s gorgeous vocal prowess, opens the set as a multi-layered-guitar rocker, but Precious really picks up the emotional momentum in its second half, particularly on the earnest “Chapter 2 (Money),” the Cure-esque “If Flowers Turn,” “Disaster in a Halo,” and “Red Colored Stars.” Since Ours is one of those few acts that can transcend itself live, treat yourself further by catching the band when it opens for the Wallflowers on their current tour.—CLT
