Is this the best band of the last 10 years? Maybe. 15 years? Perhaps. Sloan released “Parallel Play” this week and I managed to grab my first couple of listens yesterday. As usual, it’s at least a triple or an inside-the-park home run.  It must be an awesome problem to have for a band when you have four excellent songwriters, four excellent singers and four excellent musicians in the same band. Because that is the problem Sloan has.

Exhibit A: “Believe in Me,” from the new album. With keys played by the guitar’s players dad. Just listen to that opening riff and when it kicks in. I mean, really.

I would feel comfortable betting dinner that I can find a Sloan song that everyone I know would like. Even my parents. Even your parents. I mean, really. It’s getting obnoxious now.

A couple of years ago, I posted on a music discussion board that Sloan were better than Cheap Trick. And I got flamed for it by many people. I’d love to have this discussion now with those folks, or anyone, given that Sloan has released three superb albums since my statement and one half-superb album (“Pretty Together” FYI).

And live? Heh. Don’t even go there. Probably one of the best live shows you’ll ever see. So yeah, I’m excited about the new album and taking in their show this Wednesday night with good buddy Leo. No earplugs allowed.