New Release: Love & Other Diagnoses by Sloan Brothers (Science Project Records)

Athenian R. Sloan Simpson, the creative force behind Sloan Brothers, has unveiled his second release with his heart not just on his sleeve, but practically waving from both arms. On Love & Other Diagnoses, he doubles down on his flair for crafting irresistible pop gems. The opening singles, “Straight to Voicemail” and “I Can’t Sleep,” are pure sonic treasures.

Move over, “Gimme Some Lovin’.” Sloan Brothers kick off the album with “Gimme Love Songs,” a playful roll call of musical legends. “They make me feel like I belong / To a club of famous people / Like Elvis and The Beatles and Ramones.” The Spencer Davis Group would be left spinning.

Simpson slows it down on “IYKYK,” a truly heartfelt breakup song in which the singer seems to be letting her go because he knows himself all too well. And he’s sure to screw it up. “But don’t listen to me / I still wait by the phone / I can’t treat anyone right / We always end up in fights.” He’s that wonderful friend who can never find love. Then he sings about it, putting his silent agony to good use creating great music.

“Earworm Song” is aptly named…the ditty shoots straight to the listener’s brain like an M-80, rushing through you like a full body cleanse. Listening to that voice may conjure visions of They Might Be Giants’ own John Linnell, with all the quirky intelligence allowed by law.

Joining once again is Jay Gonzalez (Drive-By Truckers), a multi-instrumentalist and singer who himself has recorded some solo gems. Other contributors on Diagnoses include Kevin and Matt Lane of The Lanes and Brandon Reynolds of The Arcs. The 14-track collection of love songs will satisfy your thirst for that unrequited situation in your life. Then again, it could keep the torch lit for years to come. Either way, you’ll smile through this album.

Simpson creates power pop melancholy at its finest, merging heartbreak with humor and energy. Get yourself a copy now at Sloan Brothers Bandcamp page.