The Baseball Project - Unlikely Smash?

Twenty four hours ago I had never heard of The Baseball Project, and now their album - due to be released on July 8 - is, at least for me, the most-awaited album of 2008. Combining two of my passions in life - rock music and baseball - Volume 1: Frozen Ropes and Dying Quails includes songs with titles like "Gratitude (for Curt Flood)," "Satchel Paige Said," "Fernando," "Sometimes I Dream of Willie Mays," and a song that is destined to become immortal, "Ted F*cking Williams."

With respect to the latter song - if you don't understand at first glance why a song with that title would be such a treat, then maybe this isn't the album for you. Or, perhaps you should do a little research on the legendary Williams first, and then listen to the song. Or, just listen - it's a hoot, a rollicking rocker with a terrific sense of humor. And then look it up.

The Baseball Project is the brainchild of Steve Wynn (The Dream Syndicate), Peter Buck (R.E.M.), Scott McCaughey (the "fourth R.E.M."), and Linda Pitmon. I can't wait for Volume 1, and I can only hope that means a Volume 2 won't be far behind.

Stream the album here.

The band's MySpace page is here.

Steve Wynn's site is here.

Batter up!