Gold And Coal
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The Canadian sisters, Cassie and Maggie, bring their innovative ways to this Celtic and folk influenced setting that uses a lot of players for the 11 diverse songs.
Maggie’s warm acoustic guitar and Cassie’s intricate fiddle open with “Bow Down”, which is articulate and expressive, and “Nancy” follows with strong attention to production, as the duo harmonize amid the rich instrumentation.
“Dear Imogene” resides in the middle and recruits Jacob McCauley’s bodhrán and Dave MacDougall’s drums that help make for no lack of melodies, while “The Old Miner” allows for Michael Francis’ dreamy electric guitar to suit the heartfelt mood.
Close to the end, “Fool’s Gold” welcomes Scott Alexander’s bass via the rhythmic and folk-rock spirit, and “The Gold Rush Is Over And I’m Moving On” exits with a bouncy energy you should dance to, and the immediate sing-alongs won’t go unnoticed, either.
An effort that comes with a 16 page booklet, Cassie and Maggie bring plenty of heart and soul to these sincere songs that are full of gratitude, wisdom and a personal touch that’s universally relatable.
Travels well with: Rakish- Now, O Now; Hattie Webb- Wild Medicine