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“The first time I heard the name Missing Palmer West I was half expecting them to sound like Danny Wilson or Deacon Blue (two fave's of mine from the 80's). But no; instead of the shiny 80's lite Brit-pop, MPW sound more like bands with altruistic classic tendencies we love like The Fab Four (more on the solo side of Paul, George and John), ELO, Tumbleweed-era Elton John, Wilco, The Left Banke, Rundgren's Something/Anything, and Elvis's King Of America. Hailing from West Chester, PA - close enough to Philly to call a Philly band - Missing Palmer West are all good things warm and welcoming in a sophisticated sometimes artsy pop way with touches of anthemic orchestrated melodies. This new EP is hot. Expertly mixed by boy wonder Brian McTear and sung beautifully by pianist Ben Smith, you can call it orch-pop, baroque-pop or whatever; they've come up with something special.” --- Bruce Warren, Program Director @ WXPN
“Ben Smith explored sumptuous piano–based pop for years in West Chester’s underrated Wise & Foolish Builders, and he’s at it again with Missing Palmer West, a five–piece featuring former Bigger Lovers bassist Scott Jefferson playing guitar and sharing the singing and songwriting responsibilities. The combination is every bit as dreamy as you’d expect, especially on ”God Knows I’m No St. Paul,” a typically ruminative Smith gem that name–drops Bela Legosi, Carl Perkins and Phantom of the Opera. Think of it as a long–overdue sequel to Wise & Foolish Builders’ memorable ”Hollywood Wouldn’t Lie,” another wistful ode to pop–culture myth–making. If this is what Missing Palmer West’s upcoming album is going to sound like, count us in.”
-- Doug Wallen, from the Philly Weekly
About the new album, “Shoveling Smoke”...
Admittedly biased review here.
Missing Palmer West’s new record Shoveling Smoke, is one of my favorite releases of 2009 so far, well written, achingly beautiful, finely orchestrated pop songs that I can best describe as sounding similar to what I imagine a Paul MCartney - Ryan Adams collaboration might deliver. Their live show is equally amazing.
--- Tom Szwech @ bagofsongs.com