by Kim Ruehl

Memphis is a town of grit and soul - known for raw, passionate music which runs the gamut from country and blues to soul and back again. So it makes perfect sense that a trio by the name of Star & Micey might emerge from such a rich musical tradition.

However, where much of Memphis' musical past seems to pull from life's most emotional darknesses, Star & Micey seem to source their craft from a far more sunny, whimsical place. There's country and roots in there, sure, but the blues is hard to find.

Their new four-song EP I Can't Wait (which you can get an exclusive First Spin on below) is the sort of thing you might crank and dance to first thing in the morning, to get your juices flowing for the day. Or perhaps you'll pop it in the car stereo and blast it as you drive away. Regardless, if this is Memphis soul, it's a soul which seems to be saying "turn up the sunshine." 

Produced by Dennis Herring (whom ND folks may know and love from his work with folks like Elvis Costello and Buddy Guy), the disc sees a return to the band's three core members. Where their self-titled debut saw them collaborating with Luther Dickinson (Black Crowes), Jody Stephens (Big Star) and Rick Steff (Cat Power), they decided to see what they could do on their own this time around. See what you think of the results and share your feedback in the comments. 

The EP is available on CD and vinyl and comes with a download card for free bonus tracks.