After releasing their debut full length album “Human Ceremony” in early 2016, Brooklyn psych rockers Sunflower Bean (who graced the cover of The Deli’s 40th issue back in 2014) dropped a four song EP towards the end of that same year. Featuring cover versions of four distinct artists, “From the Basement” serves as homage to the bands diverse influences. “Old World” finds Nick Kivlen impressively channeling Jonathan Richman’s vocal phrasing and attitude on that Modern Lovers classic. A keyboard part find its way into the band’s three-piece sound, a very necessary addition in this circumstance. The country waltz of Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon” (also featuring an organ part, streaming below) benefits from Julia Cummings sweet voice, the way Joni Mitchell might have interpreted it in the 1970’s. “Shine A Light” captures the floating in a dream vibe Spiritualized is known for, while T Rex’s “Life’s A Gas” is turned around by another Julia vocal. Sunflower Bean will play a number of key festivals soon and support the PIXIES on tour including local shows on 9/22 in Westbury and 9/23 in Asbury Park. – Dave Cromwell
