Left Behind
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
An Irish acoustic folk/singer-songwriting duo, Without Willow make an impression on this debut album, where their County Donegal roots are present and appreciated across these 11 thoughtful and worldly songs.
“Come Back And Say Goodbye” opens the listen with Mark McGirr’s soft drums and Orri McBrearty’s dreaming keys alongside Karen Kelly’s dreamy vocals, and “The Heather Field” follows with Ted Ponsonby’s agile dobro and Laura McFadden’s aching cello adding much beauty to the poetic singing.
In the middle, the rich and intimate “As Autumn Falls” allows Kelly’s gorgeous voice to radiate tremendous eloquence, while “Silver In Colorado” comes with vivid storytelling and cautious instrumentation that’s a bit mysterious.
Residing near the end, “Lay Down Your Troubles” emits a hazy demeanor of introspection and grace that benefits from slow, melodic textures, and “The Show Is Over” exits with Simon McCafferty’s cozy guitar and the crisp drums complemeting Kelly’s distinct pipes that don’t shy away from Irish influences.
A listen that’s both haunting and heartfelt, there’s much balladry to absorb here, and the strong lyrical content matches the intricate and emotive musicianship that resonates timelessness.
Travels well with: Diane Coll- Old Ghosts; Natalie Price- Natalie Price