Beautiful, in fact just about perfect. The review editor thought I’d picked up a Waylon Jennings CD. But the Jennys are a long way from twang. Classically trained Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse’s collaborations in Americana-cum-folk singing are marked by some of the most pitch-perfect, gorgeous harmonies you’re likely to hear. Uncluttered acoustic instrumentation, mainly guitars and bass, with some banjo, accordion, harmonica, mandolin and Jeremy Penner’s sometimes out-there violion, backs a mix of original and traditional, sometimes a cappella songs, sung simply and beautifully. Highlights include Leadbelly’s “Bring Me Lil Water, Silvy” turned soulful by Masse’s alto, “Motherless Child,” and Gillian Welch’s “One More Dollar.” Key trackJane Siberry’s “Calling All Angels.” Beautiful, in fact just about perfect.
4 out of 5 stars