Double Whammy
Jalopy, 2026
9/10
The Brooklyn duo The Binoculars bring plenty of harmonies, timeless folk ideas and a global appeal to these sincere and thoughtful 14 tracks.
“Third Man Theme” opens with the stirring violin that aligns with warm guitar in a cozy setting, and “Blue Railroad Train” follows with the duo harmonizing softly amid the rich violin.
Moving along, “Lookout Heart” is a playful moment that’s lyrically heartbreaking but musically upbeat, while “Ethiopian Tango” blends the meticulous violin and flowing guitar via emotion and melody.
Close to the end, “Three In One Two Step” invites dancing to the frisky delivery and infectious interaction, and “Long Time Gone” exits with the pair’s pretty harmony vocals talking about splitting for good in the intimate mood.
Kaethe Hostetter (violin, guitar, vocals) and Chloë Swantner (violin, guitar, lap steel, vocals) make up The Binoculars, and these covers illustrate their affinity for classic country, bluegrass, western ideas and Appalachian folk music that takes us back many decades to simpler times and provides a soundtrack of minimal, relatable and timeless song craft.
Travels well with: The Clover Valley Boys- The Clover Valley Boys; The Down Hill Strugglers- Old Juniper