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-AmericanaDARRELL SCOTT
The Invisible Man
Various Artists
Our Side of Town: A Red House Records 25th Anniversary Collection
BLACK JAKE AND THE CARNIES
Where The Heather Don't Grow
SHANE NICHOLSON
Faith and Science
CLAUDIA SCHIMIDT
Live at the Dakota
VARIOUS
To Spirit Back the Mews: An Asthmatic Kitty Compilation
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