Concerns Of Wasp And Willow
Big Stir, 2026
9/10
Listen to Concerns Of Wasp And Willow
The indie-pop outfit, The Corner Laughers, return with their first album in half a decade, where their smart songwriting touches on nostalgic and charming ideas.
“Terra Mia” opens the listen with Karla Kane’s warm ukulele and expressive voice before Charlie Crabtree’s animated drumming enters the power-pop ideas, and “Dusking” follows with KC Bowman’s melodic guitar amid the heartfelt singing and timeless folk-pop nods.
Arriving at the halfway point, “The Harvestman” places Khoi Huynh on bass and keys amid the cozy songwriting, while “Dark Matter” leads with ambience before the animated rhythm section and flowing vocals illuminate the infectious energy.
“Victoria Sponge” and “Larkspur Landing” exit the listen. The former recruits Helen Lurker’s well timed backing vocals and Angela Rhoades’ meticulous guitar via the textured album highlight that’s got some retro spirit, and the latter finishes with Jeri Sykes’ woodwinds giving the finish a chamber presence that’s especially skilled.
A really intricate and easily accessible record that embraces folk, pop, indie, chamber, jazz, twee and even punk, you never know what each song will bring, but it will be memorable and executed superbly.
Travels well with: The Jack Rubies- Visions In The Bowling Alley; Splitsville- Mobtown