“Places,” the debut album from Ann Arbor band Light in August, is an effective tonic for difficult times.

The album is warm, comforting and relaxed — in the best senses of those words. There’s lots of life in the songs — all written by the band — but there’s a definite mellow vibe running throughout. As the band’s name suggests, its earthy pop sound does in fact evoke a pleasant summer afternoon.

The band’s melodies hit the ear gently, supported by impeccable musicianship. The lyrics are sometimes mystical, sometimes down-to-earth - and sometimes both in the same song. I especially liked the exuberance (and the vocal harmonies) on “Out of Reach” and the local flavor in “Headline News,” but all eight songs hold their own.

Band members are Alex Wand (vocals, guitar, sitar and flute), Max Stewart (drums and percussion), Jack Henry (bass) and Ali Hodges (vocals and keys). Rachel Woolf’s flute adds some additional flavor to the recording.

This is a very solid record that definitely deserves a listen.

Listen to Light In August's "Northern Lights" (MP3)

Light in August celebrates the release of “Places” with an 18+ show at the Blind Pig on Thursday. Doors open at 9:30 p.m. The Juliets and Wild Years are also on the bill. The album is available at Underground Sounds and Wazoo Records in Ann Arbor, or from CDBaby or Moozone.