CD Review – Storefront Congregation – “Kaleidoscope”

Storefront Congregation – “Kaleidoscope”

Released September 2011

One of the “Perks” of writing reviews is the opportunity to hear new music. With all the Internet has to offer, it seems there is music everywhere. Some good, some bad, some GREAT! Some that has potential, but no direction. Some that shows talent, but no focus. And sometimes, a CD will show up that just needs to be enjoyed. 

When new music finds it’s way to me, I find myself anxious, but hopeful. What is this CD going to share with me?  The good music is easy to write about. The bad is harder. What I try to do is be honest, and be selfish in listening for what a CD full of new music has to teach ME. 

“Kaleidoscope,” the new CD by “Storefront Congregation” came last Monday, and it hasn’t been out of my CD player since! The more it plays, the more nuances and layers reveal themselves. The variety of material is interesting, well-crafted, emotionally charged and thoughtful. The songs are precisely arranged, played and sung with expertise, talent, life and very real emotion. 

Seven of the twelve songs here are originals written by members of the band, and the remaining five are by such notables as Patty Griffin, Paul Craft, Shawn Camp and Michael Nesmith. A lot of care was obviously taken in choosing these songs, and then placing them in an order that holds the listener’s attention. Each and every song holds it’s own among the rest. There’s not a throw-away, filler tune in the bunch! A conscious effort to strive for excellence started right here.

   When the right people, the right combination of players, the right songs, the collective effort, the hard work and dedication all come together, the result is one of those CD’s that just needs to be enjoyed. Add this one to your collection, you’ll be glad you did.

________________________________________________________

Excerpted  from the  Prescription Bluegrass Blog

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE