We recently featured this co-ed folk duo for their single “Poison & Wine” on our weekly jukebox. Their impeccable harmonies and musical synergy made for the perfection combination of audible harmony. Honestly, the first time I heard them I was reminded of The Swell Season, a group made famous by the modern motion picture musical “Once” released in 2006. The Civil Wars had the same type of energy and passion for the music as The Swell Season, and it really showed.
Their latest (and first official) release, Barton Hollow, exemplifies their “musical synergy”, a term first coined earlier in the first paragraph of this post by me. The album is a tribute to folk music with each track generating the kind of traditional, simple acoustic sound you’d expect from artists like Ray LaMontagne or Amos Lee. Singers John Paul White and Joy Williams first met at a camp for aspiring songwriters and immediately recognized their potential as a duet. Lucky for us, that partnership led to the creation of an EP and, now, their first full-length album.
Barton Hallow includes a recording of “Poison & Wine” along with other powerful tracks including “C’est la Mort” and the title track “Barton Hallow”. You’ll find a great mix of blue-sy, soulful folk songs that exhibit both singers vocal talent and smooth harmonies. Oddly enough, co-lead singer John Paul White also has an odd resemblance to Johnny Depp. Maybe it’s the goatee.
Check out Barton Hallow on:
When I first heard the name of this band I could not help but wonder if they also ran a house painting business or a moving company. Dare I say that the music of Mumford & Sons will paint your soul and get you up and moving? In retrospect, I wish I had not dared myself to say that. The important thing to remember is that these guys are wickedly talented and fun to listen to.
I have proven time and time again that I am a sucker for the mandolin, banjo and dobro. For proof of that you can read about my healthy crush on The Lovell Sisters. Mumford & Sons developed their sound in the London folk scene. Their music blends folk, rock and bluegrass all together with a burning lyrical intensity. A recent signing with Island Records will only help spread their music across the globe. The boys have already made a name for themselves in England, Ireland and Australia. Constant touring and a full length album in the works sets the stage for a promising 2010 for the band.
In late 2009, Mumford & Sons released their EP, Sigh No More. For me EP stands for “tiny album”. What that means is that you are going to get four tracks on this album. It satisfies, but certainly will leave you wanting more. The lead single, “Little Lion Man”, is my absolute favorite. I dare you not to tap your feet to the song. I double-dog-dare you. If you want a beautifully packaged ball of energy, “The Cave” is just what the doctor ordered.
Check out their official video for “Little Lion Man”
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Want some more foot stompin’ music? Check out The Avett Brothers.
