Caitlin
Canty – Golden Hour (Independent)
Born and raised in Vermont and now resident in New
York City, Caitlin Canty stylishly unites the rural and the urban. “Golden Hour”
is her third album and it’s a graceful, sophisticated recording, with elements
of dark Americana and folk flirting with a mature almost-but-not-quite jazz
ambience - almost as if Daniel Lanois were manning the desk.
“Still Here” provides the perfect launch, it’s
haunting mood, lyrical prowess, melody and barbs combine beautifully – it’s
late night listening for nights you wish would never end. “Shoot Trouble”
instills Southern Gothic edginess with undercurrents of folky menace. It’s
stirring and emotionally taut, and might just be the finest track of its kind
since the first Tarnation record.
Her band get it just right throughout “Golden Hour”
adding layers of atmosphere and dusky musical tension rather than showy solos. “Every
Day” and “Do Not Stand At My Grave”
are equally perfect constructions, the latter has every right to be maudlin,
but rises above the mawkish through sheer elegance and a subtle understanding
of the theme. Lighter material such as “Southern Man” and “Vermont” add illumination
and emphasize Canty’s sublime way with words. They end with a cover of
Darlingside’s “Sweet
and Low” – a faultless conclusion.
Rob F.
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