JOY KILLS SORROW

This Unknown Science

2011-09-07

This is the second time around for this Boston-based bluegrass outfit, named for the '30s radio station where the Monroe Brothers were often heard (WJKS--Where Joy Kills Sorrow), and this set takes the bluegrass basics and adds a variety of other influences, from jazz to rock to blues. More experimental than JKS's debut, one finds songs of dark, light and in-between, book-ended by Matthew Arcara's picking (he's an award-winner in that category) and Emma Beaton's vocals. Bassist and main composer Bridget Kearney has a John Lennon Songwriting title under her belt, so the lyric-music interplay is seamless. Check out "Reservations," "New Man" and "Eli." And for a mood-evoker, sample "Somewhere Over the Atlantic." Laudable and applaudable. 09/11 Michael J. F-Americana

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 06/2012

    O'DEATH
    Outside

  • reviewed 10/2005

    Susan Cowsill
    Just Believe It

  • reviewed 09/2011

    DRIFTWOOD FIRE
    How to Untangle a Heartache

  • reviewed 02/2016

    On and On
    And The Wave Has Two Sides

  • reviewed 05/2008

    The Brass Kings
    Washboard Rope Guitar

  • reviewed 09/2006

    THAT’S HIM, THAT’S THE GUY!
    Help Me I'm on Fire

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.