David McGraw and Mandy Fer – Seed of a Pine

This album encapsulates, everything I love about the Americana music scene, namely, heart, soul, places, travel, song and fine musicianship. I have Darryl Purpose and his “Travelers’ Code album back in 2001 (see http://folking.com/darryl-purpose/ ) to thank for my introduction to it and my subsequent love affair with it.

Human chemistry is indeed a mercurial thing, and adding any artistic endeavour into that mysterious balance can, every so often, create some true magic. For David McGraw and Mandy Fer (pronounced fair), the delicate intertwining of music, life and that always-fine interpersonal equilibrium has born fruit in the shape of a truly one of a kind artistic partnership.

With the release of the song writers first official collaboration, Seed of Pine, the duo’s ability to blend their lush folk and Americana – influenced styles is on full display. McGraw’s consoling, velvety baritone voice, reminiscent of Greg Brown, coupled with Fer’s soaring and subtly powerful vocal approach, likened to that of Patty Griffin, puts a spit-shine polish on the finely crafted body of songs they have generated together.

The  intricate weavings of their vocal harmonies are undeniably exceptional. McGraw’s hard-hating tunes echoed narratives of the culture and landscape of the American West, wherein he thoughtfully spins tales of everyday folks looking for something more in their earthly existence. Fer takes a more dreamy approach, invoking complex and etherial imagery within her sultry and haunting melodies. Her potent electric lead guitar playing, in the vain of jazz-fusion guitarist John Scofield, bravely propels this duo through their uniquely heartfelt and spirited live performances, winning over audiences night after night,

McGraw and Fer have amassed an admirable resume and an ever-expanding fan base during their time playing music together.

Having toured the U.S. from coast to coast, performing in highly esteemed theatres to intimate listening rooms, the pair has honed their skills sharing stages with fellow troubadours including Willy Porter, The Swell Season, Tony Furtado, Jeffrey Foucault and many others.

Seed of Pine itself was recorded in Chicago during the summer of 2011 with renowned producer Zach Goheen and includes contributions from a litany of acclaimed musicians, including Wisconsin singer-songwriter Peter Mulvey, Po’ Girl songstress Allison Russell, and Chicago’s JT Nero (of JT and the Clouds).

Let’s hope that they make it over to the UK at some point in the future. We’ll be straight back to you if we hear their a coming!

Folkmaster


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