gomez - a new tideGomez is one of those bands that for a brief moment in the late ’90s and early ’00s aaalmost reached the big time, and then … didn’t. But when their moment of almost-fame passed, they didn’t quit. They’ve soldiered on ever since as a solid second-tier draw, touring incessantly and releasing a modest-selling album every few years. These kind yeoman, committed career bands don’t get enough credit.

The latest from these Brits, their sixth LP, is A New Tide. Over the years they’ve drifted from one part of their sound to another — blues, indie pop, and art skronk in varying ratios. The latest is on the poppy side, accessible and catchy, if still with the band’s trademark smoky rasp. This song, “Airstream Driver,” is my fave.