Todd Sheaffer writes supple, rootsy numbers that get a happy feel going in a kind of genial new-hippie bounce, and he sings them with a frank, conversational flair. But his best work ("Head," "Sunshine," "Walk On By") leans either to more straightforward pop or to balladry and better showcases the instrumental kick of this New Jersey quintet. They're a crack outfit, their saxophone filigrees, mandolin and violin grace notes and distinctively melodic bass lines making Open Up the Sky a set rich in nuance and textural delight. Playing this tight and intuitive is the product of years of gigging; with this assured major-label debut, all the dedicated hard work bears fruit. (RS 709)

PAUL EVANS