“Dust to Dust”
I had heard this new single before, but tonight I took a moment to stop everything else I was doing and really take it in. I turned up the volume, closed my eyes and I was struck by just how beautiful it is.
I’m sad that John Paul White and Joy Williams have decided to call it quits…that they aren’t even on speaking terms right now. I’m hoping they’ll eventually reconcile their differences so we can hear more from them.
Filed under NEW Music, Song Of The Day
John Paul White and Joy Williams have been one of the most buzzed about acts on Cayamo. As the cruise began, these quickly rising stars were on everyone’s radar. And despite John Paul being seasick, causing one of their sets to be postponed, The Civil Wars certainly lived up to the hype.
The stars really must’ve aligned when these two artists met. Their voices are made for each other. Flawless harmonies ebb and flow in perfect sync and they both seem to really FEEL the music. Joy especially moves with every note…a playful dance that can really cast a spell on the audience. There’s something theatrical about this duo…I was surprised to see them wear the exact same clothes for all three performances – a kind of costume I suppose.
Add to their polished delivery a simply charming stage presence with delighful banter, and The Civil Wars are a must see. I caught all three of their performances and enjoyed songs from their debut album Barton Hollow as well as uniquely rendered covers…incluing Leonard Cohen’s “Dance Me to the End of Love”, Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean”, and my favorite – “I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5.
The two expressed nothing but gratitude for having been invited on the ship and said they’d love to come back and perform again. John Paul promised he’d take plenty of Dramamine next year.
Filed under Cayamo 2012, LIVE music
The Civil Wars – Barton Hollow
It’s truly hard to believe that John Paul White and Joy Williams have only known each other for a few years. In 2008, they were brought together for a blind songwriting session and they clicked…to say the least! Their debut album, Barton Hollow is brilliant. The songs evoke a range of emotions with their breathtaking harmonies and delicate instrumentation. The chemistry between these two makes them one of my favorite live acts of the year as well…check out their live TV debut on Jay Leno:
Filed under Best Of '11
