Any Such Thing
Edgewood, 2021
8/10
The Memphis duo of Van Duren and Vicki Loveland return with a 3rd album of songs that were inspired by their last 5 years of performing all over the world, and it’s quite possibly their most eclectic to date, as pop, soul, blues and many other ideas enter the 10 tracks.
“Tumbledown Hearts” gets the listen off to a fantastic start, where power-pop and warm Americana meet with much melody and smooth singing from the pair, and “A Place Of No Place” follows with soulful brass and proficient drumming as Loveland’s versatile pipes guide the rugged yet tuneful climate that speaks of the ills of the former administration.
Deeper into the listen, “Ain’t It Pretty To Think So” benefits from playful saxophone as a bouncy spirit enters the album highlight, while “Skywriting (Tasmania)” trims the volume and pace back with Liam Grundy’s sophisticated piano adding much beauty. “Where Are We Going?”, another exceptional tune, then places Tim Horrigan on organ and Adam Holton on bass as Loveland and Duren bring timeless folk qualities to the formula.
Rounding out the listen are “Everyone Is Out Of Tune” and “Ending Again”, where the former offers firm keys amid a nostalgic version of rock that’s insightful both socially and politically, and the latter finishes on a dreamy note with well delivered flute from Jenny Davis alongside mesmerizing harmony vocals.
Loveland and Duren have both had lengthy, exceptional careers on their own, and here they handle a variety of instruments and sing on all the tunes. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and talent, and a long with their esteemed help have created an intimate and also frisky listen that’s often nostalgic, entirely diverse and glowing in creativity.
Travels well with: Jenny Davis- Rearranged; Willie Nile- The Day The Earth Stood Still