The Kennedys: West
Review by Dave Simpson
American folk duo, The Kennedys, have a
busy year ahead of them. Singer/songwriters
Pete and Maura, who have been performing
together for two whole decades, plan on
releasing three different records in 2015. The
first of these, West, will be exclusive to Ireland
and Britain when it hits on April 13th,
preceding a UK tour at the beginning of May.
The album’s eponymous opening track is an
altogether innocuous affair that blends
together elements of folk and country and
western. Its warm, relaxing riff and soft
melody serve as a pleasant starting point.
“Elegy” features cool and crisp guitars that
develop into an enthralling riff bordering on
classical about three-quarters of the way in. A
rousing harmony persists throughout the
pressing instrumentation and is particularly
arresting.
Musically, “Sister of the Road” has quite a
sentimental feel, affording it a compassionate
air. The transfixing vocal work washes over
the senses and captivates entirely from
beginning to end. “Signs” exhibits another
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mesmerising melody amid guitars that are a
little more dark and serious. There’s something
both intriguing and exciting about it all as it
trucks along at a steady pace.
Light and breezy instrumentation joins
upbeat, reassuring vocals during “Jubilee
Time.” This song acts like it doesn’t have a
care in the world, emanating a contented and
unconcerned atmosphere.
Exotic guitars and romantic lyrics breathe life
into “Locket”. Their heartwarming disposition
results in a touching and amiable love song.
The cheeriness continues into “Southern
Jumbo”, which is a bright and jovial entry. Its
music and melody glide along merrily,
evoking feelings of joy and happiness.
The guitars and vocals of “Black Snake,
White Snake” build steadily, forging a
strikingly stirring and powerful piece.
“Bodhisattva
Blues”
follows
along
whimsically with riveting instrumentation and
a swift melody. “Travel Day Blues” opts for a
heavier approach, recalling the rock and roll
anthems of artists such as Chuck Berry while
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adding a country spin. It’s an irresistibly
enthusiastic addition, loaded with energetic
vocals and vigorous riffs.
The hushed acoustic guitars and optimistic
vocal work of “The Queen of Hollywood
High” develop gradually to become lively and
hectic, building suspense and anticipation as
they do so.
“Perfect Love” is a bustling ballad with a
tender melody and spirited instrumentation,
after which a mellow acoustic riff and sobering
lyrics take over for “Good, Better, Best”. Its
affecting tune ensures that it serves as an
eloquent finale.
The Kennedys’ work here showcases a
splendid blend of acoustic folk and easy
listening pop. West is a collection of thirteen
enchanting tracks whose heartfelt and
passionate execution makes for a wonderful
listening experience.
Be sure to check the album out upon its
release in April and in the meantime, head over
to Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date
with the band.