Bluegrass and rock don’t always mesh, but in the case of Fiction Family, the two styles are seamless.
Jon Forman, lead singer of the South California rock band Switchfoot, and Sean Watkins, one-third of the bluegrass trio Nickel Creek, have teamed up to form the all-star duo Fiction Family. Their first full length release, in stores Jan. 20, is a self-titled album with 12 original tracks, all written, arranged and recorded by Forman and Watkins.
The album is a combination of the musical styles that both musicians bring to the table. Forman released an acoustic four disk collection in 2008, one for each of the seasons, which was a departure from his pop/rock roots with Switchfoot. This departure provided fans with a new style, and this raw, acoustic side is on display in the Fiction Family album. Watkins, with his extensive work with Nickel Creek and side projects, brings a folk/bluegrass element to the album. Together, their love of the raw acoustic style provides an easy listen.
Many of the songs focus on raw human emotion with themes that include love, life, loss, betrayal, death and longing. Their uncluttered style makes room for lyrics with deep meaning. On “Betrayal,” Forman sings of being betrayed by a lover, but buries it in metaphor and elevated language, telling it in a new way.
Both musicians’ vocal prowess are on display on the album, adding depth to the sparse instrumentation. Their harmonies create a powerful force in “Look For Me Baby” and “Coser Than You Think.”
Taking a cue from Forman’s solo projects, the musicians play with vocal layers and echo effects. On “Please Don’t Call It Love,” a haunting chorus and background whispers give a forlorn feel.
Part of the album’s appeal is in its use of diverse instruments. Even though the album is largely acoustic, Forman and Watkins add a sitar to “Throw It Away” and a horn section to “Elements Combined.” Watkins’ bluegrass/folk influence is evident on many songs with the mandolin and even with the accordion on “Throw It Away.” On other songs, such as “Look for Me Baby” and “Elements Combined,” the distinct “plink, plink” of a piano adds to the folksy and upbeat tempo.
The highlight of the album is the single and album opener “When She’s Near,” an upbeat love song with a powerful chorus. Another highlight is the reverberating crescendo at the end of “We Ride,” which gives a sense of chaos and disorder to the otherwise steady song.
The debut album from Jon Forman and Sean Watkins’ Fiction Family is an acoustic festival for the ears, with a unique appeal that will keep you listening again and again.
Click here to see Fiction Family’s MySpace page.
Sarah McCaslin can be reached at [email protected].
