The New Wave

Contrary to what their name might imply, the New Wave emerged not as late-1970s or early-1980s trend followers but rather as a soft rock sunshine pop duo active in the final years of the 1960s. The group was formed by singer/songwriters Tommy Andre and Reid King, who released an obscure self-titled album on the Canterbury label, an imprint that also served as home to fellow sunshine pop act the Yellow Balloon. Information about the New Wave stays minimal, although photographs on the album sleeve portray them as strikingly youthful, most likely still teenagers. The recording proves so gentle and pop-oriented that its ties to rock remain tenuous, sometimes appearing aimed as much or more at the adult pop audience than at pop/rock listeners. Their songs center on breezy, samba-influenced romantic numbers with close harmonies, acoustic guitars, and light percussion, all enhanced by vibes and occasional orchestration. The results prove pleasant yet insubstantial, recalling in a limited way the most pop-focused work of Chad & Jeremy without a close resemblance.