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Celia Evans
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Review of Celia Evans’ new album,
‘HARDWOOD’
By Keith Gorgas (October 2010)
From the first guitar strums of “Comin' Home to Me” to the closing yodels of “Great North Woods Cowboy”, Adirondack singer/songwriter Celia Evans’ new CD “Hardwood” is a masterpiece of beauty and grace. There isn't a weak link among the 12 offerings included on the disk. Evans' songwriting is homey and catching; lyrics touch on family, love, history, and the wonders of nature, especially the Adirondack waters and landscape. Her crystal clear voice, buoyed by exquisite harmonies and solid backing musicianship, makes the album a “must listen” for anyone who enjoys heartfelt folk music.
Throughout the recording, the rhythm section of bassist George Viscome and Buzzy Rickard gently keep time, while guest artists like Roy Hurd, Jamie Savage, and a handful of others add interesting color to the various numbers. Particularly noteworthy are Daun Reuter's feather light mandolin line on the inquisitiveve “Eva,” and Georgie Rickard's soulful fiddle on the bittersweet “Hardwood.” “Mother's Son” paints a stirring portrait of young warrior heading back into combat - a tribute to the 10th Mountain Division from the viewpoint of an observer who's a dove rather than a hawk. “Hard Habit To Break” and “Photographic Flair” display the artist's pop sensitivity, and Jamie Savage's guitar lines are simply catchy.
As a whole, “Hardwood” is a collection of tasty chestnuts--a real treat for the listener. Here's hoping there is more of the same coming from one of the real gems of the Adirondack folk music scene, Celia Evans.
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To order this CD online, go to CD Baby, or send a check for $15 payable to Celia Evans and mail to:
Celia Evans
P.O. Box 161
Paul Smiths, NY 12970
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“Celia Evans’ lyrics are filled with a love of nature and her voice is clear as a stream. Truly refreshing songs.”
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—Dan Berggren
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“...The songs of Celia Evans always manage to find tenderness in relationships, family and the natural world. If Kate Wolf had forsaken California for the Northern Adirondacks, she might have sounded something like this.”
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—Mark Erelli
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