As welcome as the sun on a warm summer day, Circle, a Japanese import by Nashville-based duo Swan Dive, makes all right with the world from the opening notes of the we-speak-without-speaking “Breezeway.” Guided by multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Bill DeMain’s seeming affection for classic ’60s pop and kindred to more contemporary acts like Prefab Sprout and the Beautiful South, Circle’s 13 tracks are initially simple but are brimming with elegant musical touches such as clarinet, harmonium, and pedal steel. Molly Felder gives a sweet voice to DeMain’s lovely ruminations on life, love, and happiness, and the pair’s harmonies are magical. With production help from Brad Jones, it all adds up to a nearly perfect pop collection from the wistful, string-laced “Goodbye September” and the peppy, horn-driven title track to the fragile, stripped-down “And She Dream” to the funky “Moodswinging.” A stellar release, well worth seeking out. – Tom Demalon
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