The
Elementalz – Rain Love (Wun Whirled)
Hawaii based duo The Elementalz are husband and wife
team, Brent Magstadt and Sherri Thal. Magstadt is an accomplished guitarist and
multi-instrumentalist with a history of live performance that goes back to the
mid-‘70s, though he didn’t release his debut solo album until 2005. Thal’s
musical history goes back to 1980, and over the years she’s taught voice,
violin and musical theory and played with Michelle Shocked and the Lava Jam
Band. Together they released their first Elementalz EP in 2009, and have now
followed it up with “Rain Love”, a seven-track collection that showcases their
songwriting, musicianship and harmonies.
I’m sure their sunshine island surroundings have
influenced their songwriting, but it’s not quite as overt as one would have
expected. Their style is acoustic folk pop – a little downbeat in places – that
references artists like The Grateful Dead, Country Joe and various Beatles and
Byrds. Beginning with “Simple Thoughts”,
Magstadt takes lead and its positive, life-affirming message is heartfelt and
uncomplicated. Thal’s “London Town” feels
decidedly English in its execution, and I’m reminded a little of June Tabor,
and the first album she made with Oysterband back in 1990. They come together
beautifully on “On the Water”. Thal’s high
singing is incredibly effective, and when the pair sing in unison, they
complete the picture.
Tony S.
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