After a great length of time spent building up a regional Northwest fan-base, and creating for themselves a sound comparable to early (pre-slick production) Jars of Clay, or Caedmon's Call, Five O'clock People's eclectic, folksy, and earthy sound is presented here, proficiently.
Layered harmonies, mandolins, violins, accordion, organs, guitars, harmonicas, and upright bass meld together in a soothing musical melange. Added to this patchwork are poetic, no-nonsense lyrics that hit home, both in their story-telling essence, and emotionally evocative quality. Songs like "Sorry" about a break-up, the worshipful "Living Water," and the haunting "Glass" weave together a tapestry of multi-colored threads.
Five o'clock people have a nicely paved road ahead of them, lined with the fans that helped bring them this far. Talent this applaudable deserves whatever good things that this sometimes sordid music industry can offer.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Alex KlagesThis northwestern quintet has put together a brilliant introductory album. While new to most of us, Five O'Clock People have been not-so-quietly building a strong regional fan-base. Due to this support, they finally garnered the attention of Pamplin Records. Stylistically, they fit well into the "coffeehouse" style. Much like Caedmon's Call, there's a clever combination of thoughtful lyrics,…Similar sounding releases
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