Wand releases new album, plays Chicago

I’ve been a big fan of Wand ever since the release of the band’s first album several years ago. The albums are instantly catchy and likable on first listen.

And while there’s plenty of that charm on the band’s latest album, Plum, some of the music demands a little more attention.

The last two songs on the album, Blue Cloud and Driving, clock in at a combined 15 minutes. It’s a departure from the irresistible three or four minute psychedelic nuggets from previous releases but no less satisfying. These two jams show a desire to stretch musically and that’s a welcome change.

Check out Wand at Lincoln Hall Saturday night.