Christchurch Folk Music Club
Back Porch Music
Reviewed By Larry Milnes
I noticed in a review in the previous Hear Ye that the reviewer closed with the postscript “If you love music don’t flog it off the net” and while I agree with this, a positive by-product of this digital technology is that CDs seem to be being produced with fewer ‘filler’ tracks. It’s given the music industry a much needed shake up and stronger albums seem to be a result. This must make it harder for artists who don’t have a lot of material, but in the case of Over the Rhine this doesn’t seem to be a problem. The husband and wife team of Karin Bergquist and Linford Detweiler have written 20 of the 21 fine songs on offer here.
I’ve had this CD on high rotation now for a few months and it seems to grow with each playing. The general feel is alt country deeply infused with gospel. The songs are lyrically strong, diverse in style and instrumentation, ranging freely across the Ohio landscape from the stripped down piano/vocal of the title track, to 12/8 blues of “Fool” and on to the funked up groove of “Fool Number One”. Truly music for the mind, body and soul.
Karin Bergquist’s voice is a fine instrument with a wide range and full tone. This is augmented but not overpowered by guitars, keys, piano, bass, drums and tasty but not overdone pedal steel guitar – all used in various combinations.
This album was released in 2003 so no doubt many of you are enjoying it already. If not, give it a whirl and see what you think.
Good listening and listen good.
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