Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards “Hard Times & Woes”

Right away I get hints of 50s and 60s folk music. The play of their voices off of each other is reminiscent of The Everly Brothers, Simon and Garfunkel, but with tasty bits of roots and American roots goodness. The sounds they have managed to get out of the instruments are clear and crisp. It’s something I have strived for at my own home studio and just can’t seem to get, so I am especially jealous of the sonic quality of this record.

Mandeville has a friendly voice but there is something somewhat enigmatic about it. Like he has something hiding, something to tell you if you listen closely to the words of the songs. Richards’ slight twang is the perfect complement to his vocal, it’s like a puzzle piece that fits after you have been searching for it under the table to complete the work. A flawless fit. Neglecting fear of an obvious vocal comparison, Dave Rawlings and Gillian Welch. This is especially clear in the track “One More Mile”. Richards’ voice is absolutely beautiful on this song. The two play off of one another with grace and poise.

“It Won’t Be Written On My Grave” has a nice feel to it. A light and airy arrangement. Raianne’s voice soars again on the track “Hard Times”. A very clever, simple layout of parts. Just enough, never too much. Really, really elegant and bright choices made throughout this entire work. Truly. “Last Tree Standing” is one of my favorites on the track that showcases both Mark and Raianne’s vocal work in a beautiful setting. A great song, great instrumentation, great lyrical work. A+.

The only slightly negative feedback I have is that the title track is probably my least personal favorite of the bunch. It’s still a great tune, just not my favorite of the bunch. Hard Times & Woes, great title for a record, but as the lead off tune for the record and something that really call my attention it fell a bit flat in comparison to the 9 other INCREDIBLY solid tracks on the album.

This record is defined by impeccable and gorgeous harmonies, wonderful musicianship, great songwriting and smart choices in the arrangements. My attention is caught the entire listen (multiple times through). ‘Hard Times & Woes’ brings anything but, it’s a joy to play this record over and over.

You can pre-order the CD on their website.

http://markmandeville.com/

CD release information below:

Apr. 17 – Lizard Lounge – Cambridge MA SHOW: 9pm, 8:30 doors | COST: $12 with Dan Blakeslee, Hoot and Holler (Mark Kilianski and Amy Alvey) www.lizardloungeclub.com