Elf Power: Jimmy Hughes (vocals, guitars, mandolin); Andrew Rieger (vocals, guitars, bass guitar, percussion); Laura Carter (vocals, accordion, keyboards); Josh Lott (vocals, drums, percussion); Madeline Adams, Raleigh Hatfield, Davey Wrathgabar (vocals); Derek Almstead (guitar, keyboards, bass guitar, percussion); Julie DeRoche (banjo); John Fernandes (violin, clarinet); Heather McIntosh (cello); Deanna Varagona (baritone saxophone); Bryan Poole (bass guitar).

Recording information: 2006.

On BACK TO THE WEB, Elf Power's debut album for their new label, Rykodisc, the band continues its development toward a more focused, intense sound. Hailing from Athens, GA, the band was part of the neo-hippie Elephant 6 collective that also spawned Neutral Milk Hotel, the Apples in Stereo, and Olivia Tremor Control (John Fernandes of OTC even makes an appearance here).

After mastering the psych-pop of Elephant 6, Elf Power moved toward a more straightforward rock sound, but this 2006 release finds the band incorporating Eastern musical influences to create a darker, more nuanced strain of folk-rock. The Middle Eastern and gypsy stylings benefit from an expanded lineup and richer orchestration, featuring everything from clarinet to banjo to accordion. Standouts include the infectious "Peel Back The Moon, Beware!" and the Grateful Dead homage "23rd Dream," positioning BACK TO THE WEB as an intriguing next step in the continuing evolution of these indie wildcards.

Q (p.115) - 3 stars out of 5 -- "Singer Andrew Rieger has a clear, ingenuous voice, while the band's ability to rock out at the drop of a hat proves a pleasant surprise..."