Self-released

From the breezy opening invitation and swing of “Back Porch” through “Rocketship” near the end of the album, the self-titled debut from Seattle’s The True Spokes is a skipping study in what it sounds like when mature pop-rockers get all the right stuff just right. The band – formerly known as Flowmotion – has delivered a first salvo that stands up there with radio classics like Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers as well as contemporaries like The Mother Hips and Wilco, all while never sounding like anyone else. What they share with these bands is a dedication to craftsmanship, unshakeable musicianship and heartfelt, melodic songs that resonate on a wide scale. There’s much to love on this ideal bit of summer listening.