“Poison & Wine,” apparently played on an episode of Grey’s Anatomy (I didn’t even know this show was still on) is more representative of the rest of the record. It’s sad and haunting, beautiful and poignant.
“Birds of a Feather” is a beautifully written song about being in a relationship, with all its quirks and delights. “She’s the sea I’m sinking in/He’s the ink under my skin…But who could do without you?” Williams and White croon to and with each other, capturing the ups and downs of love perfectly.
“My Father’s Father” also shines, with its lyrics speaking of loneliness and being homesick.
I like this record a lot, but it’s necessary to say that it definitely is not for everyone. Some may find it sad, even bordering on depressing. But I like music that makes me feel something, whether it’s ecstatic or glum. I also like the country vibe of their sound. It’s something different for me amongst my indie pop and electronica. Barton Hollow is beautiful and it can stay.
The Civil Wars will tour to promote the release of Barton Hollow, with appearances scheduled for SXSW and the Sundance Film Festival. It looks like their tour is sticking mostly to the East coast, the Midwest and the Southwest. Us West coast folks will have to hope they head here soon. Barton Hollow is available on iTunes. For a free download of “Barton Hollow” (the song), visit The Civil Wars on their MySpace page or www.thecivilwars.com. Or just see it here:
