Now Or Never
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
Doris, Cindy, Tammy and Diane, i.e. Girls Next Door, began in 1982, but went on hiatus in 1991 to take care of their families. Now, 31 years later, they’re back and in fine form across these 7 timeless songs.
The soaring and harmonic country rock of “What’s This Thing (You’ve Got About Leaving)” opens the listen with the quartet’s smooth voices aligned with warm fiddle and playful keys, and it isn’t long until the gritty yet melodic “When The Water’s Down” bring thicker guitar and well timed dobro for the more firm presence.
On the back half, the stirring intimacy of “Shades Of Grey” uses pretty viola and dreamy backing vocals via the gorgeous climate, while “Livin’ In The Rain” exits the listen with a soothing, gospel spirit of finger snapping, and light bass and percussion to complement the glowing vocal harmonies.
A triumphant return, let’s hope it isn’t decades before the Girls Next Door make another appearance, cause their vocal prowess is still very much appreciated.
Travels well with: Sister Sadie- II; Sylvia- Nature Child- A Dreamer’s Journey