The Barr Brothers are causing a buzz in
the Indie world. Their self-titled debut release is a mostly acoustic journey
into the duality of human emotion. They explore the context of our true feelings, and
the complex emotions that make us betray them. The Barr brothers are not new on
the scene, they are the founding members of The Slip. They have dropped the
theatrical nature of their former band for a more stripped down, yet complex
sound. The album’s ethereal undertone is accentuated by inclusion of the harp played by Sarah
Paige.
Though mostly acoustic, there is some gritty Rock & Roll,
like the Electric Blues on “Lord I Just Can't Keep From Cryin’”. Another
interesting track is “Give the Devil Back His Heart”, which mixes in Native
American influences. However, the song that really stands out, and is one of
the best songs I have come across this year is the opener, “Beggar in the
Morning”. The song is perfectly arranged with poignant lyrics. The song
provides a very dark but true picture of how relationships can evolve over
time. “Hello I’m a monster too and what poisons me is what poisons you too.
Into these animals we grew, but when we were young our eyes were blue”. Although they are veteran musicians, their
debut as the Barr Brothers is impressive and full of innovation.
