Released on August 19th, 2008 at The Casbah, we might be a little bit late on the review for Wendy Darlings debut '...Half-Time Bedtime Stories.' Better late than never, this album is most definitely worth the wait. A four piece indie/pop group from San Diego, Wendy Darling is much a buzz on the scene. Recently they were up for the SDMA's 'Best Pop Act', featured in CityBeat, and have packed such venues as The Casbah and the Beauty Bar. Being so new on the 619 radar, this is no small feat, and deserves the proverbial pat on the back. *pat *pat

As a self admitted music snob, I'm quite hesitant to review anything from San Diego. Usually, I'm afraid that I'll hurt someones feelings or say something later that I will regret. So I recieved this album, threw on the headphones, pressed play, and stared out my window in disbelief for 10 beautifully crafted tunes.

(Nate Hellar, Hector Verdugo, Jon Freeman, and Cori Rush - Wendy Darling)

In 50 brief minutes I had found a new favorite local. Frontwoman Cori Rush held my attention the whole time, to which she should be awarded a medal. Her harmonies are comforting, and her lyrics are true. As far as the production goes, guitarist Nate Heller is absolutely exceptional. It's not an over-the-top pop album that most listeners would expect to hear on Top 40 radio (damn Clear Channel). And, it's not so indie that you struggle to hear words, lyrics, or even the music. I didn't listen to song 7 and think 'wait, that sure does sound like song 3.'

All in all...Half-Time Bedtime Stories is indie, it's pop, it's...just..really damn good. If you are a fan of The Weepies, Molly Jenson (SD local), HEM, or Tristan Prettyman, you will definitely enjoy what Wendy Darlings debut is throwing down.

Hear their music here, and buy the album!

Check them out December 20th @ The Beauty Bar.