The Wooden Birds (@thewoodenbirds) sophomore release Two Matchsticks is simply fantastic.  The project of songwriter Andrew Kenny, formerly of American Analog Set, has retained the heartfelt songwriting and sensitivity that has become his trademark.

The album opens by showcasing Kenny’s excellent melodic writing style in “Folly Cub.” With soaring vocals provided by Leslie Sisson, minimal percussion backing, meditative guitar hooks, and sensitive boy/girl harmonies, The Wooden Birds will certainly draw some Fruit Bats comparisons. The title track, “Two Matchsticks”, follows with more plunky bass lines and sultry harmonies. If Kenny can do anything, it’s write a sexy melody.

Another standout track is “Company Time.” Constructed with the same fare of hypnotic guitar riffs and simple bass, the instrumentation leaves space for the tilting harmonies of Kenny and Sisson. “Be No Lie” anchors the final portion of the album with a great Paul Simon-esque melody. The minimalist arrangement and repetitious lyrics make this track one of the best zone-out songs on the album.

As a whole, though, Two Matchsticks suffers from some monotony. While delicate and beautiful, the broken-down instrumentation provides little variety and Kenny’s songwriting does not tread over any new ground. However, The Wooden Birds bring excellent melody and harmony to the table in this indie-folk effort. If you’re looking for an album to compliment a sun-splashed rooftop kickback this summer, give them a try.