Going The Distance
Berkalin, 2022
8/10
The Austin duo of Jim Patton and Sherry Brokus align themselves with an impressive band on these folk-friendly tunes that Patton penned during the first 2 years of the pandemic.
The title track opens the listen with breezy acoustic strumming and gritty, welcoming vocals from Patton as Brokus brings soothing harmonies to the warm folk-rock, and “That’s What I Do” follows with Rich Brotheron’s intricate mandolin making a big impression alongside the charming vocal harmonies.
In the middle, Warren Hood’s skilled fiddle illuminates the poetic “Golden Boy”, which also recruits keys from Ron Flynt, while “Brand New Love” is a bit rugged and scrappy as the spirited electric guitar and John Bush’s agile drumming don’t disappoint.
“Austin Night” arrives near the end and showcases Bill Kirchen’s strong Telecaster prowess amid the rock’n’roll template, and “I’m Still A Dreaming Man” exits the listen with a stirring intimacy that’s full of eloquent strings, mesmerizing guitar and dreamy vocals from the pair.
Lyrically, themes of loneliness, plans going awry and making love work will strike a chord with anyone during these trying times, and Patton and Brokus’ chemistry might remind you of Richard and Linda Thompson, or Emmy Lou Harris and Bob Dylan.
And who could have a problem with that?
Travels well with: Jefferson Ross- Southern Currency; Pete Mancini- Killing The Old Ways