Our exclusive Mus-o-meter registers Phosphorescent's 'Here's to Taking It Easy'

Phosphorescent started as a solo project of Matthew Houck’s in 2003, staying under the radar until 2007’s much-lauded “Pride” and a 2009 collection of Willie Nelson covers. This month, the band releases “Here’s to Taking It Easy,” Houck’s answer to a straightforward rock album (with a release party tonight at Union Pool). But to really get a sense of what it’s all about, we leave that to our exclusive Mus-o-meter.

Take the prominent guitar of the Rolling Stones’ 1969 album “Let It Bleed.” Then add …







The grooves of Neil Young’s 1974 album “On the Beach.” Then add …









The boozy vibe and bravado of Ronnie Wood’s 1974 debut, “I’ve Got My Own Album to Do.” The sum?








Phosphorescent’s new album, “Here’s to Taking It Easy.”