B-Side Guys

Brothers Rob and Don Mathews, alongside drummer Erik Anderson, have weathered more than a few musical storms throughout their careers. Their band name, borrowed from John Prine’s catalog, serves as perfect metaphor for veteran musicians who’ve learned to protect what matters while remaining open to new possibilities. On their latest EP “More Lucky,” The Storm Windows demonstrate exactly this philosophy—six tracks that showcase hard-earned wisdom wrapped in the kind of effortless Americana that only comes from decades of genuine musical partnership.

Released June 20th, this 22-minute collection finds the upstate New York and Vermont-based trio operating with the confidence of musicians who understand their strengths without being constrained by them. As they explain their mission: “On one level, our music is just a bunch of songs, mostly original, with which we find a personal connection. But it’s also a travelogue: part road trip; part nostalgia for something lost; part optimism for something coming.”

Opening track “I’m Going To Memphis” immediately establishes this travelogue aesthetic through its celebration of musical pilgrimage. The arrangement benefits from additional contributions by Pier Luigi on piano and Illa Naverov on electric guitar, creating fuller sound that maintains the trio’s essential intimacy. Rob Mathews’ guitar and vocals anchor the track while Don Mathews’ upright bass provides the kind of steady foundation that allows for spontaneous musical exploration.

“We All Have Ghosts” follows with more contemplative energy, featuring additional musicians Pier Luigi on piano and Dan Hochhalter on fiddle and mandolin. The song’s exploration of memory and regret gains particular resonance given the band’s own history—they describe themselves as veteran musicians “who have weathered a few storms but are still standing and singing about it.” This autobiographical element never overwhelms the universal themes, instead adding authenticity that distinguishes their work from less experienced Americana acts.

The title track “More Lucky” serves as the collection’s philosophical centerpiece, with Dima Faustov contributing horn arrangement that elevates the song beyond typical folk territory. The track’s examination of gratitude and perspective reflects the kind of hard-earned wisdom that can only come through genuine life experience. As the band notes, their music represents “survey the American landscape, like a cross-country adventure (including up through Canada) in a VW bus.”

“I Made A List” provides necessary contrast through its more intimate approach, featuring Dan Hochhalter on fiddle and mandolin alongside Silvio Centamore on drums. The song’s detailed storytelling demonstrates the band’s gift for finding universal truths within specific experiences, creating music that feels both personal and accessible.

Penultimate track “I Ain’t Finished Yet (Remix)” introduces the collection’s most topical elements, addressing contemporary concerns through rock-influenced arrangement. Additional musicians Pier Luigi on piano and Hammond, and Zamm Kenobv on drums, create driving foundation that supports the song’s more urgent messaging. This willingness to engage with current events while maintaining their essential musical identity demonstrates artistic maturity that many veteran acts struggle to achieve.

Closing track “Angel (That Heaven Must Of Sent Down)” provides uplifting conclusion through collaboration with Pier Luigi on piano, Jacobo Garces on drums and percussion, and Matt Galata on trumpet. The song’s spiritual imagery creates perfect send-off for collection exploring themes of hope, journey, and perseverance.

Throughout “More Lucky,” The Storm Windows benefit from their extensive touring experience and collaborative spirit. Their performances blur “the line between jam session and showcase,” creating music that functions equally well in intimate venues and larger festival settings. This versatility reflects decades of musical partnership that has taught them how songs can adapt to different environments while maintaining essential character.

Critics have consistently praised their work, with publications noting their “timeless” quality and “absolutely brilliant alchemy of music.” This recognition reflects their success in creating Americana that honors tradition while remaining vital and contemporary.

The band’s approach to recording and collaboration—bringing in additional musicians when songs require them while maintaining core trio identity—demonstrates understanding that great music often emerges from balancing individual vision with collective creativity. Their re-emergence in 2022 after early internet-era performances in Greenwich Village shows commitment to music-making that transcends career considerations.

Sometimes the best journeys are the ones that don’t promise arrival anywhere specific. The Storm Windows have learned this lesson well, creating music that finds profound satisfaction in simply moving forward together, windows down, radio up, headed toward whatever comes next.