Dinsmore /
Callard - If We Could Fall In Love Again (Rider Records)
Rick Dinsmore and Jos Callard got together in 2005
and moved to Austin a year later. They follow in the tradition of Americana
musical pairings such as Buddy and Julie Miller, Gillian Welch and Dave
Rawlings, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, and EmmyLou Harris and, well, just
about everyone. On “If We Could Fall In Love Again” they’re joined by a full band
of talented young players
and experienced session musicians, who between them have performed with
everyone, from Manhattan
Transfer to the Brothers Johnson and Bruce Hornsby. Needless to say, the
musicianship here impresses from the off, and coupled with the duo’s
contrasting vocal styles, “If We Could Fall In Love Again” deserves serious attention
and much consideration.
The album begins with “Mr Blues”.
Dinsmore takes the lead and he’s in possession of a fine county voice; the sort
of voice that’s simultaneously new and yet completely familiar, and comes laden
with roots tradition. Rich and warm, I suspect I’d happily listen to him sing
the Spice Girls back catalogue, though I hope he doesn’t test the theory. The
pair alternate lead vocals, and both provide harmony backing. Callard’s voice
is quirkier with more of a bohemian folk edge. The first name that came to mind
was Edie Brickell, though it’s more of a feel rather than a direct similarity.
On “It's Your Night” there’s even a suggestion of Debbie Harry,
which to my ears is a very good thing, and it’s a highlight of the set. As is
the very last number, a fine uncluttered version of Joe ‘Red’ Hayes and Jack
Rhodes’ “A Satisfied Mind”, a song that’s been covered more than most,
they manage to find something fresh and new.
Rob F.
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