Most people today who listen to music frequently would not know about the band Counting Crows. People who have been active listeners since the ‘90’s could tell you that they do know Counting Crows from their biggest hit “Mr. Jones,” as well as a few follow up hits like “Accidentally in Love” and “Big Yellow Taxi.”

However, a lot of people would not be able to tell you much else or that they weren’t even sure if they still made music. Well, I am here to tell you that they sure do and are as active as ever.

They just released their seventh studio album, Somewhere Under Wonderland. The band took a few years to regroup and produce some independent works until finally signing a deal with Capitol Records.

As far as comebacks go, Counting Crows definitely did not take this one lightly. You can feel the motivation in the music they make and you can tell that the music is really what they intend on perfecting.

This album features the single “Palisades Park,” which was released in early July. The album is recorded with really dry vocals, so you get a very personal feeling when you listen. It’s as if Adam Duritz is talking right into your ear (in a good way). Each song in this album reinforces the idea that things are always better when you wait for them.

Somewhere Under Wonderland contains nine uplifting and deep lyrical songs by a band that has been through it all.

Adam Duritz packs emotion, character and meaning into his powerful lyrics. A constant theme throughout the album is enlightenment. You feel uplifted by every song, even the ballads.

The single “Palisades Park” brings a real Dave Matthews feel to meet the alternative folk-rock sound of the Counting Crows. You can really feel the energy in songs like “Earthquake Driver,” “Elvis Went to Hollywood” and “Dislocation.” Its songs like these that get you excited about the band and could even turn someone into a fan. There is evidence of real crafty and poetic songwriting in songs like “Scarecrow” and “Possibility Days.” It really makes you think and dive into what the song really means; and that is good songwriting.

Personally, I think that the success of this album could be a stepping-stone in the path back to the mainstream music for Counting Crows.

This album has everything a comeback album should: deep and meaningful lyrics, staying true to the band’s sound, uplifting and energetic songs, and the feeling that this is not the end.

After this great new album from Counting Crows, I have no doubt that the next one will be just as great, if not more.