Paint The Roses
Tricki-Woo, 2021
8/10
The Nashville sister duo and Grammy nominated outfit Larkin Poe found themselves unable to tour after releasing Self Made Man last year, so they aligned with the Nu Deco Ensemble’s collaborative concert, which allowed Rebecca and Megan Lovell the first chance to play these new songs live.
“Sometimes” starts the set with soulful vocal harmonies from the pair, as a hand clapping, rootsy feel unfolds amid bright brass, drumming acrobatics and an orchestral backdrop, and “Back Down South/Blue Sky” follows with a firm southern angle where Rebecca’s booming pipes soar high over the bluesy moments.
In the middle, “Danger Angel” emits a dreamy quality amid both grit and melody in the dense climate, while “Tears Of Blue To Gold” flows with a bouncy spirit that just might be the best selection here, though there truly isn’t a dull moment.
Nearing the end, “Every Bird That Flies” offers an initially calmer demeanor that weaves in and out of emotive, even ebullient moments, and “She’s A Self Made Man” exits the listen rugged yet tuneful, where the Nu Deco Ensemble’s contributions mesh superbly with the Lovell’s timeless, warm vision.
The Nu Deco Ensemble is home to 20+ musicians, and they bring a wide variety of instruments and textures to Larkin Poe’s American South and Southern Gothic themes on this incredible live effort. Other than actually seeing Larkin Poe yourself, this is the next best thing to experiencing the true depth of Rebecca and Megan Lovell’s many talents.
Travels well with: Beth Hart/Joe Bonamassa- Black Coffee; Lilly Hiatt- Walking Proof