Pete & Maura Kennedy make up the Kennedys, and although relatively unknown in the UK, 2015 marks their 20th anniversary, and West their 14th album!
'West' is the first of 3 albums to be released during the year, and let’s hope the quality control is the same for the other two.
In the same mould as Buddy & Julie Miller and The Arlenes (remember them ??), this is an Americana duo with their heart based in Nashville although they are both originally from the East coast of the States.
Opening and title track 'West' is a yearning ode to be travelling in that particular direction and they both harmonise vocals to gorgeous effect. The mandolin influenced 'Elegy' has the band at their most REM-like, and I think there may even be a touch of harpsichord in there for good measure.
Album highlight for me 'Sisters of the Road', see’s just Maura on vocals, and continues the theme running through the album of touring and travelling, and has some lovely guitar work from Pete.
'Jubilee Time' see’s Pete on lead vocal, with Maura providing harmonies and it’s another slice of loveliness.
'Travel Day Blue's is a slightly more up-tempo number, again with some lovely guitar work from Pete, and I’m sure live this would be a difficult track to keep still to. Penultimate track 'Perfect Love' begins with a 60’s sounding guitar vibe, before again leading into a lovely chorus sing along.
The albums closing track 'Good, Better, Best' is a simpler acoustic love song, again with vocal harmonies, and a gorgeous way to end this travelogue.
If you need a palate cleanser from 2015’s ubiquitous guitar rock, or simply some damn fine Country/Americana, you’d do a lot worse than to check out The Kennedys.
8/11
Keith @kjsmith4082
The Kennedys Website & Tour Dates
