No Remedy
Self-Released, 2021
10/10
A Nashville duo who certainly embrace the traditions of their hometown, Mare Wakefield and Nomad Ovunc are in the company of Brian Allen, Wes Little and Tim Galloway on this very distinct and very smartly executed 3rd album.
“Almost Mine” starts the listen with Wakefield’s lovely, sublime vocals alongside warm acoustic guitar as a dreamy opener makes an indelible impression, and “Give Myself To Love” follows with a quicker pace of country influenced spirit, where accordion from Ovunc and banjo thanks to Galloway adds much to the thoughtful climate.
Near the middle, “Outfield” offers a timeless approach that embraces folk ideas amid a poetic quality resonating alongside piano from Ovunc, while “Your Dad” glides with a dance friendly demeanor where Little’s skilled drumming anchors the rootsy atmosphere. ‘No Remedy”, one of the record’s best, then benefits from Jason Eskridge and Kira Small handling backing vocals on the heartfelt and emotive song craft that’s both stirring and memorable.
Landing near the end, “Home To Me” resides in darker territory where Wakefield’s strategic accordion is as agile as Wakefield’s pipes, and “Winter Rose” exits the listen gentle and emitting a bare eloquence that’s powerful in its subdued haze.
The pair missed out on 6 months of shows in 2020 due to the pandemic, and they concentrated their energy into this record instead. A career highlight, No Remedy balances intimacy with exploration, as flute, synth, upright bass and slide guitar, among many other noisemakers, make their way into what will likely be one of the best Americana records of 2021.
Travels well with: Patty Griffin- American Kid; Cindy Alexander- When The Angels Sigh