Under The Leaves
Four Miles, 2021
9/10
A quickly rising duo from Arizona comprised of Cameron Hood and Ryan David Green, the acoustic guitar fueled songs on Under The Leaves are never short on harmonies, as plenty of guests offer strings, keys and percussion.
The title track starts the listen with swift guitars as Hood’s warm pipes steer the folk and Americana influenced landscape, and “The Fight” follows with an upbeat and rock tinted adventure of breezy melodies amid some grit, too.
Halfway through, “Appy Returns” displays strong guitar acrobatics in the jam band friendly instrumental that recruits percussion from Ben Aylon and Ken Chastain, while “Gone Before I Go” resides in calmer territory that illustrates a diverse set of pipes as pretty folk-pop benefits from Jamie Bishop’s bass. “Not Alone”, a particularly noteworthy tune, then brings strings to an orchestral backdrop and dreamy landscape of moving song craft.
Further yet, “Ruins” is a bare and emotive display of cautious and intricate musicianship, and “Morning Breaking” exits the listen with piano balladry that’s both stirring and powerful, as the record finishes with as much appeal as it began.
A very rich effort that’s meticulously crafted and authentic, it’s no surprise that Ryanhood were named Best Folk Band and Best Rock Band in their hometown, and Under The Leaves will certainly gain them even more praise as the pair are working with a timeless formula that’s executed flawlessly.
Travels well with: Jackson Scribner- Jackson Scribner; Mackenzie Shivers- Rejection Letter