*** ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN, “Evergreen,” London

In the early ‘80s, Echo & the Bunnymen and U2 were lumped together by the British pop press in the “New Psychedelia” movement because both bands reflected a post-punk return to some of the melodic flair and hazy guitar ring of ‘60s rock. While U2 reached out to audiences with an almost missionary zeal, the Bunnymen’s early recordings were more insular and gloomy.

Though the band never caught on big in the U.S., it had a major impact in England until singer Ian McCulloch left for a solo career a decade ago. Among the standouts influenced by the Liverpool group: the Stone Roses, Oasis and the Jesus and Mary Chain.

In this reunion with McCulloch, the band exhibits some welcome traits: a sunnier disposition and some inviting echoes of the bands that followed in its path. “I Want to Be There (When You Come),” already a hit on modern rock radio formats, sounds like a cheery Jesus and Mary Chain tune, minus the latter’s heavy guitar feedback. “Nothing Lasts Forever” offers the youthful wonder of Oasis, complete with Oasis’ Liam Gallagher on the chorus.

McCulloch, guitarist Will Sergeant and bassist Les Pattinson don’t seem overflowing with ambition or urgency, but the heavy, orchestrated music has a comforting, familiar feel that is winning.

*

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* Excerpts from these albums and other recent releases are available on The Times’ World Wide Web site. Point your browser to: https://www.latimes.com/soundclips