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Penny and Sparrow (from the album Olly Olly on Thirty Tigers Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)
On first glance, it’s somewhat hard to believe that Penny & Sparrow are celebrating the release of their seventh album. Not that they lack the credence or creativity to have accomplished such a feat, but given their low cast persona, it’s hard to imagine them peering that far above the radar. Theirs’ is a sound draped in a kind of nocturnal haze — lush, lovely, but also unobtrusive to the point where they practically beg their audience to lean in and listen. Happily, though, those that take the time to fully focus will be rewarded with the results. Given the noise and clutter so overriding in the world these days, it’s nice to experience music that can provide such a dreamy distraction along with its mellow musings. Granted, a second — or even third — hearing is generally needed to fully soak in that serenity, but with songs such as “Adeline”, “Need You”, “Gogogo”, and “Get Along”, the ethereal ambiance creates a captivating impression even through a fleeting encounter. The gentle lope of “Alabama Haint”, “Innkeepers”, and “Voodoo” sweep the senses and add intimate appeal, all courtesy of the haunting melodies and a decidedly delicate haze. Apparently, that was the intent along. The pair’s two principals, Andy Baxter and Kyle Jahnke, opted to mine the music on their own without an outside producer, while also trying to adjust to some unfamiliar environs and a lack of shared space. The songs helped them filter their emotion while finding resolve and resolution despite the uncertainty of those situations, allowing creativity to make up for whatever confidence might have been lacking It’s that sense of yearning and desire that colors Olly Olly overall, not only changing the duo’s dynamic, but adding a new dimension to the pair’s approach overall. Having once come across as a sort of Simon and Garfunkel hybrid, it’s clear they’ve now shed that sound in favor of an atmospheric approach. Ultimately, it’s far more affecting. (By Lee Zimmerman) Listen and buy the music of Penny & Sparrow from the band’s store For more information, please visit the Penny & Sparrow website
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