Over the next few weeks we'll be taking a look at local bands that are on verge of breaking out in 2012. Up today are The Elwins.

Who are The Elwins?

The Elwins are Matthew Sweeney (guitar/vocals), Feurd Ian Robertson Moore (Guitar/Keyboard), Travis Stokl (Drums) and Christoper Shannon (Bassist). Last year at NXNE, the indie-pop quartet's sunny melodies surprised many at Global Village, turning ears and heads even among the constant flow of beer and the aroma of free barbecue.

Now the band offers their infectious songs on their debut album And I Thank You — an album that's bright, effortless and downright fun!

They sound like...

"It's (And I Thank You) a bit of a throwback to pop music of the 60s and 70s. We love The Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Carpenters and so much of the pop music of that era," explains Feurd.

Those of us who grew up listening to those throwback bands won't be disappointed with the way The Elwins charm with playful lyrics and Sweeney's boyish, feathery vocals, combined with the band's bright-eyed doo-wop rhythms and sha-la-la sing-alongs.

Each track has a trace of a classic radio pop song, like the bouncy "Paper in your Pocket" or the rosy "Propinquity" — both consisting of light arrangements and warm, sugary optimism. And I Thank You gives you that feel-good vibe, whether you bobble your head to the album's standout track "Stuck in the Middle" or cuddle shoulder to shoulder with your romantic interest to the acoustic track "I Miss You and I."

The band is worth keeping an eye on because...

"For us it's definitely a happy record. We had a killer time making it and hope people have fun and smile while they listen to it!," says Feurd. The Elwins are a swell of sunshine in spirit and in sound with their relentless, joyous jangles. The band knows how to throw a good clean, live show, and their enthusiasm on And I Thank You is contagious — sometimes that's all you need.

Previously in the series:

• Trust
• Lake Forest

Photo by Ming Wu

A big thanks to the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic for sponsoring the long hours of listening to music, attending gigs and chatting up groupies that went into writing this post.