Break This Record takes full advantage of this rare combination by showcasing all its possibilities. From the previously mentioned hard edged "Finally Found The One," the soulful "Richard Of Los Angeles," to the country-flavoured blues of "City Cow Girl," Deering & Down show they can handle anything the blues can throw at them.
Deering's voice becomes even more effective when she slows down, especially evident on "Richard Of Los Angeles" and "Abbey." The latter is a deceptive song; I was shocked to see how simple the lyrics were when I read them over after listening to it. Deering had been able to suggest so much meaning with her voice, that I heard more than what was actually being said.
To be able to communicate a sub-text is a remarkable accomplishment for any singer, and on reading through the lyrics of other songs on the disc, I saw that this was the case on more than just "Abbey". Not only does that indicate a singular vocal talent, it says volumes about the talent involved in creating the songs and the production of the album. There are subtleties at work that only incredibly skilled people can bring out, and that is a nod to the talents of Rev Neil Down, who took the lead in producing this disc.
The days of the gold rushes to Alaska and the Klondike might be long over, but that doesn't mean you still won't find the occasional treasure buried up above the tree line. On Break This Record Deering & Down prove there is still gold up in the tundra, you just have to look for it different places now.
Article comments
1 - Terry Cumming
I am a big fan of Deering and Down and have been very fortunate to have seen them live (twice) in Whitehorse, Yukon (next to Alaska) where they are much beloved. I have also been lucky to hang out with them after their shows as one of my buddies recorded their first album in Whitehorse.
Deering and Down would be the perfect band to appear on Austin City Limits - that would be the optimum venue for this band (and they would deserve above all others to appear on such a stage). Their music is sexy as hell (and also heartbreaking and sad). Lahna is so beautiful on stage and the Rev Neil provides the appropriate accompinament on guitar. These two belong together musically and they deserve to be HUGE in the musical world.
Buy both of their albums and treasure them.