"DARLIN' AND ROSE"

Sometimes its nice to put on a CD, and not really remember why you are listening to it…I mean, its good to just sit back and relax, do whatever stuff you're doin', and not really think about the fact that you're reviewing this particular album. That's what happened when I got the self-titled CD from Darlin' and Rose. I just went on about my business, and it played
in the background. I didn't listen to it with a critical ear, at first. I just enjoyed it! And
believe me, it's one that was easy to enjoy!

The first track on the CD is VERY country and sung by Rose. It's not a duet, but it's great, and belongs on this album. "Honky Tonk Eyes" (Sylvester E Bowen and Nisha Catron) has some great lyrics, and the instrumentals are pure and held back a bit, so you can HEAR those lyrics! I like that. I've always said that one of the biggest problems with a lot of records, these days, is that the instrumentals tend to overshadow, even out BLAST, the lyrics. That's something that should always be taken care of in the production of any album. No one wants to have to strain to hear a lyric. And no matter how good the music is, how good the band is, if there are lyrics to a song, then we should be able to HEAR them. Am I right? Yep, I'm right. (smile)

Another song on this CD that I liked a lot, is "My Name Is Rose", (Brown, Catron, and Gloria J Smith). It's a poignant song, which has a special place here. It will mean something to any listener, I'm sure. Even if its NOT a true story, it SEEMS to be, and that's because they know how to deliver it as fact, NOT fiction. It's a great tune.

The very last track on this album is one that makes clear why I told you its not all REAL country. This one is called "My Tears Have Gone To Pain" (Bowen-Catron). It's a very cool little tune that's both moving and well, MOVING! You may want to dance to this one, folks, though admittedly, you'll dance sloooow and sexy. At least that's the way I'D do it. Heyyyy, that's ok, right? RIGHT! This song kinda makes me think of those oldie songs on the Patty Page records. At least I think it does. Doesn't it?? Oh well. I have to say, though, Rose has her own tag on her songs, and she doesn't NEED to sound like anyone. I guess it's the rhythm in this tune…. It's kinda like that old song called "Fever". Ever hear that one? If you watch any old movies, you may have heard it, and seen it performed. I think it was Jane Russell in "Some Like It Hot"…anyway, take my word for it, the song is very good, and Rose has a voice that can send chills down your spine!

Each song on this CD are good ones. In fact, I find little "wrong" with this album. The ONLY thing I may have done differently? Hmmmmm….I may have re-titled "Million Dollar Smile", the sixth song, cause I just love that line that's repeated so many times "…full moon in my eyes"…I guess I would have been tempted to use THAT as the title. But hey, I didn't write the song, and I know that a writer has his own sense of feeling about a title. I just wanted to let you know that these guys, Darlin' and Rose, aren't PERFECT. Welllllll, they are….but dang it!…A good reviewer ALWAYS finds SOMETHING to complain about…(smile)

I highly recommend this CD, folks. Why don't you go over to their website, http://www.darlinandrose.com and take a listen. Rose has a wonderfully deep and harmonious voice that she knows how to use to its fullest extent. And Darlin' has his very own sound and style. I like this pairing. I'm sure they do too! And I'm pretty sure you, the listeners, will too! Their Americana/blues/cabaret/country, is a very unique blend of music, and is getting lots of airplay. If you're ready for something different, for a change, do try this one. I guarantee your country senses won't be offended. These folks are who they are. And they don't claim to be anyone or anything else. How refreshing! ……………As always, this has been....