Garden
Self-Release, 2025
9/10
The Grammy-nominated composer and educator Owen McIntosh is joined by The Nightbirds and Fire & Grace for this family affair that incorporates the cycles of growth, care and renewal found in a garden.
“Dawn” opens with Ashley Hoyer’s warm mandolin and the playful percussive sounds emitting much warmth, and “Grow” follows with Jade Hendrix’s expressive and uplifting voice guiding the graceful strings.
Moving into the middle, “Drought” enlists William Coulter’s fluid guitar amid Edwin Hulzinga’s stirring violin, while “Give” allows for Samantha Harvey’s animated accordion to complement the pretty and colorful singing.
“Dig It” and “Harvest” exit the record. The former is a frisky and organic album highlight, and the latter finishes with a rich, bluesgrass inspired moment of sublime beauty and organic ideas.
A very lush and enlightening effort, McIntosh’s vision strengthens families’ understanding of nature and how it relates to us all, and we’re all better off for listening.
Travels well with: Debi Derryberry- Go To Sleep; Andy Z- My Voice