A Will Away – ‘Stew’

For 10 years, Connecticut rockers A Will Away have become reliable for making thoughtful songs, yet they have somehow never had that breakthrough moment. Over the course of a few albums and EPs, the quartet have carved out a well-rounded brand of Americana rock, embracing elements of rock, pop, and alternative along the way. At face value, their third full-length, ‘Stew’, continues this pattern. The 11 tracks on offer drift in and out in three minute waves (or thereabouts), aiming to paint a narrative of the importance of all human interactions, no matter how trivial they might be. From failed credit card transactions to needing a sweater, to having a “good headache”, the quartet’s train of thought is clearly relatable, yet is occasionally clouded in metaphors. Nevertheless, ‘Stew’ is musi...