Reading, Writing, & Arithmetic (1990)

Album by The Sundays

Before listening to this album decades after its release, I had really only known “Here’s Where the Story Ends” from the radio. It turns out I’d completely slept on this band.

Harriet Wheeler’s voice floats lightly above the chiming guitars, giving the songs an introspective tone that never tips into melodrama. “Can’t Be Sure” stands out for its driving rhythm and confident vocal delivery, while “Skin & Bones” gives Wheeler space to truly soar. “Hideous Towns” is bright, bouncy indie pop, and “You’re Not the Only One I Know” carries one of those simple but wonderful lyrical sentiments that lingers.

“A Certain Someone” shows a slightly tougher edge — about as hard as this band gets — with sharper drums and a hint of early-U2 urgency in the rhythm section. Throughout the record, the melodies are strong and the mood is remarkably consistent. Nothing feels forced.

I ended up liking every track.

Verdict: Solid

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