Review by Dave Simpson
April Verch has managed to craft her own
unique style of music by resurrecting elements
of old American roots and bluegrass and
blending them with the simplicity of folk. The
Canadian step-dancer turned fiddler was raised
amidst the influence of her father’s country
band, church singing, community dances and
fiddle competitions. It all meant that she was
determined from an early age that she would
pursue a career as a professional musician.
Now, some two decades later, Verch is
getting ready to release her landmark tenth
studio album, The Newpart. Named for the
beloved family room of her childhood home,
it was where she once enjoyed witnessing her
father’s band practice and where she still
rehearses herself when she’s not out on the
road.
The compilation begins with the jovial “Belle
Election.” It’s an entirely instrumental number
in which lively fiddle work dances along
merrily to a buoyant beat. Its successor, “If
You Hadn’t Gone Away”, is more reserved.
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This simple and expressive entry features
mellow instrumentation that slowly unfolds
alongside a high pitched melody.
“Bring Your Clothes Back Home” features
lighthearted and playful strings, as well as an
extended bass sequence. The innocent vocals
recall a tune that feels like it could have been
plucked straight out of a Disney movie.
Title track, “The Newpart”, leads into festive
fiddles via a fast paced, acoustic riff. The
sound is more than a little reminiscent of a
traditional Irish ditty. It’s followed by the
warm, emotional instrumentation and soft
melody of “It Makes No Difference to Me”.
“Cruel Willie” is composed of gentle acoustic
guitars and poignant background strings, while
“Gilchrist” taps along to nothing but the sound
of step-dancing. “Montana Call” arrives next
through solemn fiddle work and introspective,
lamenting vocals.
“Polska from Kumla” is another instrumental
addition, returning to a cheerfully optimistic
sound that conveys a sense of excitement.
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“Midnight Wheeler” maintains a carefree
atmosphere, developing a swift rhythm infused
with more traditional hints.
The airy vocals of “It Don’t Do Nothing but
Rain” evolve over an upbeat riff before “I
Heard the Bluebirds Sing” adopts a classic folk
vibe with bright instrumentation and a relaxing
harmony. “Dry Bones” bridges the gap to the
finale through stirring strings and resonating
vocals. “This Melody” concludes the
proceedings then by beginning with a piercing
harmony that’s soon joined by reflective string
work. It puts a slow and affecting cap on the