Cara Luft, Nicky Mehta, and Ruth Moody were each enjoying substantive individual careers on the Canadian folk music scene when they joined forces for an impromptu show at a friend’s guitar shop Cara Luft, Nicky Mehta, and Ruth Moody were each enjoying substantive individual careers on the Canadian folk music scene when they joined forces for an impromptu show at a friend’s guitar shop. One show led to another and a band was born. Now the estimable Red House label brings the Jennys Stateside with their first full-length release, 40 Days. Consisting of two traditional Celtic tunes, two covers (Neil Young’s “Old Man” and John Hiatt’s “Take It Down”), and a democratic showcase of their own compositions, the album practically bursts at the seams with an infectious, collaborative energy. Unpredictable vocal arrangements feature short solo turns that subtly blossom into choir-robe-perfect harmony, each lady staking claim to a unique vocal range and handing off ownership of the melody. The writing is appealingly diverse in style, yet unified by a soulful, lyrical quality, vigorous rhythm guitars, and those exquisite harmonies. Impeccably produced by David Travers-Smith, this is one of the most exciting new folk bands and albums of 2004.