Woven Tangles, the Detroit-based Americana/folk/blues duo, have released a 10-song album titled Lumber Jackson via Funky D Records.
Accompanied by several supporting musicians, Holly Bernt and Kevin Kline return with the power of American harmony in a down-home testament to American sound. Woven Tangles’ Lumber Jackson elegantly integrates the instrumentation of folk, the emotional power of blues and the warmth of roots-country vocals.
The album’s self-titled track, “Lumber Jackson,” is a how-to of American balladry. Bernt and Kline’s harmonized vocals introduces listeners to a humbled dance rhythm supported by southern-inspired storytelling: an undeniably timeless sound. The song incorporates fiddle (Hardy Kefes), light snare (Tino Gross), accordion (Don Reinholm) and bass .
“When I say timber he runs,
When I say timber he runs,
When I say timber, he does not linger,
He runs like the lumber Jackson.”
Lumber Jackson‘s fifth track, “Lullaby,” features a dreamy ode to piano, and light guitar rhythms. The highlight of the piece is easily the vocal chemistry between Woven Tangles members. Kline demonstrates his vocal prowess with a series of out-bursting lyrics atop a softened, sleepy melody, while Bernt accents Kline’s starring role with a conscious and restrained accompaniment.
“There Ain’t No Love Here,” the album’s final track, is easy-listening American blues at its core. The backbone of the song is supplied by an unrestricted harmonica, simple hand-clapping and a loosely held tambourine. Bernt’s vocal slurring defines this “last-song-of-the-night” anthem.
Woven Tangles have demonstrated their grasp of American folk/blues/roots-country to a degree most would find impossible for a Detroit-based group. Their unwavering authenticity makes Lumber Jackson a collection for any listeners who appreciate genuine harmonies, and classic American instrumentation.
Purchase Lumber Jackson here.