Boston’s The Push Stars are often referred to as the best band you’ve never heard of. I’d take that a step further and say they’re the best band you’ve heard, but don’t know. You’ve heard their songs on the radio, on television and, with the release of their latest disc Paint The Town, you will hear songs you’d swear you’ve heard before, somewhere.

The Push Stars manage to be accessible and interesting without being terribly distinct or challenging. This may sound like a criticism, but it also applies to the two bands they conjure the most- The Counting Crows and Coldplay. In fact, vocalist Chris Tapper (whose style certainly pre-dates Chris Martin’s) has a vocal approach that often drifts between Martin and Duritz. On Outside Of A Dream, Tapper croons, “We used to dance, but the best clubs are all closed down, and all of the music sounds mean.”  Surely this song, and the disc in general act a remedy, as there is nothing mean happening here.

Guitars are the most interesting element of Paint The Town, from the jangly Claire, through the soaring Paint The Town and Matt Beck’s intricate noodling on Outside Of A Dream. The nostalgic story/song Outside Of A Dream is one of the strongest singles I’ve heard this year. With an infectious chorus that will burrow into your subconscious and not let go, and some of the more poignant and visual lyrics on the disc, it has everything to make the perfect summer single. The chorus, “Dream, I’m on the outside of a dream, praying that you could salvage me, thy will be done” is sung with perfect attachment and emotional measure. It’s a tasty treat, and well worth the price of admission. In The Galaxy and Lucky Sevens follow and could also stand very comfortably as radio singles. Every Angel is a truly euphoric track, with its layered guitar and piano supporting Tapper’s evocative “I’ve come to claim what’s mine.” But it’s only one of at least six standout tracks on the disc.

You’ve heard them on There’s Something About Mary, Malcolm and The Middle and Me, Myself and Irene. They did that Everything Shines song. You might have even googled the soundtrack, looked up their name and said, “Who?” But with Paint The Town The Push Stars have arrived on their own, with a disc of inspired power pop grounded in innovative guitar and refreshingly crisp hooks. Surely you’ll remember their name this time, and make the trip from Google to Amazon.