Calico Brothers - Various
05 Jul 2009 // A review by dubhappy
In the farway land of Waitakere, New Zealand, the Calico Brothers broke into the modern music scene in 2008 with their debut EP, God Left Town. In the basement studio, Chet O'Connell (guitar), Jimmy Calico(bass) and Robbie Calico(drums) finished their debut full length "Tell It To The Sun." This is gentle folk pop with a country twist, and it opens with the shimmering title track, complete with harmonica and slide guitar riffs. The wonderful songwriting pulls this album above the ordinary with the Lennonesque "Is There Anyone There?" and "Up For Air." Fans of Wilco, Jayhawks, America and CSN will surely enjoy the wonderful harmonies and subtle Telecaster sound. The low key ballads are not that exciting, but the mid tempo pop gems more than make up for it. "Tread Carefully" sounds like a Gerry Beckley classic and "Weight Around My Heart" is another well written single. The heavy echo effects on "Always Said I'd Do" distract a little from the melody, but it's still a keeper. This is a successful album, with perfect rural pop songs for a sunny day.
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About Calico Brothers
After playing shows in the barn of their family farm in Waitakere, Calico Brothers broke into the modern music scene in 2008 with their debut EP, God Left Town.
With great reviews, shows throughout New Zealand and the inclusion of the title track on the double-platinum selling ‘Outrageous Fortune’ soundtrack, February 2009 found the band in the studio with a bag full of new songs and other things.
A basement studio. A live set up. The warmth of Turkish rugs. Tracks laid down with a minimum of fuss. The session’s effortlessly soulful performances are the product of the Calico’s rapport and their respect for many musical traditions.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Calico Brothers