Harbortowne
Berkalin, 2024
8/10
The Austin residents and husband and wife duo of Jim Patton and Sherry Brokus return with a 7th album timeless folk sounds and authentic Americana that is present in spades.
The frisky title track opens the listen with Patton’s quick singing alongside Brokus’ soulful backing vocals, as warm acoustic guitar flows, and “The Juggler” follows with some jangly percussion to complement the breezy melodies of the timeless folk qualities.
Further along, graceful keys from Ron Flynt enter “Missing You”, which tugs on the heartstrings, while “Slap In The Face” is an upbeat album highlight that’s full of vivid storytelling and Rich Brotherson’s meticulous mandolin.
Closer to the end, the cozy spirit of “Back In The Storm” offers a soft and rich moment of vocal harmonies, and “Start Again” exits with Warren Hood’s stirring fiddle that complements the emotive finish which places Brokus on lead vocals.
An effort that tips its hat towards their native Maryland, the vocalist BettySoo and percussionist John Bush are also present, and it helps make for a record that will bring to mind legends like Lightfoot, Dylan or even Buffett.
Travels well with: Jim Patton & Sherry Brokus- Big Red Gibson; Brian Kalinec- The Beauty Of It All