The first CD release from this acoustic duo is a selection of tracks from a live recording made at Wheaton College, Illinois in 1997. Between them, Josh Kauffman and Paul Duncan share acoustic guitar and vocal duties. Duncan also plays the piano, and friends join along with percussion, cello and violin.
The sound is very stripped back, with a clear emphasis on the vocals resulting in some sweet harmonies. Both vocalists have versatile voices, which tend towards the upper end of the male range and blend together well. The delicate finger-picked guitars blend well with a laid back percussive background.
The lyrics are simple, yet evocative. The major theme throughout the record is the peace and healing to be found in Christ, explored through songs that were written as a result of a variety of experiences, from a relationship that ended at a friend's wedding to the death of someone close.
There's a fine line to draw when preparing a live album. Just how much of the crowd noise and the musicians' comments should be included is a difficult thing to decide. Almost all of the noises and introductions have been edited out, which can be a little disconcerting when a little applause does creep in, but doesn't take too much from the recording.
Nothing revolutionary, but well performed and arranged acoustic music. It would be interesting to hear something more recently recorded.
4 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Shari LloydTrue Tunes has been releasing some very interesting indie stuff that has needed a wider distribution. Kepano Green is an acoustic duo following in the vein of Harrod and Funk, Simon and Garfunkel, and Caedmon's Call. The music is for the most part very stripped down but then there are only two of them on this live CD. "Riverside" is one exception which had a fuller sound which shows this band has…
