Crossing Canal, Lowdown Runaround Fool

Crossing Canal, Lowdown Runaround Fool – Review

by J. Pepper

Crossing Canal is an Americana-Folk duet that combines the talents of two guitarist/vocalists Ruby Ross and Patrick Cooper. Their vocal harmonies are a cornerstone element to their sound.  In the spirit of folk songs, the EP deals with everyday situations with earnest and witty lyrics.

The duet has released a six song EP entitled Lowdown Runaround Fool. The instrumentation is sparsely set with two acoustic guitars, and the focus on Ross and Cooper each taking their turn in the lead vocalist spot.  The album was recorded with no overdubs at the Oak Street Recording studio in New Orleans.

“Chase Me,” begins the album a well-penned tune that features wry lyrics delivered with passionate vocal proclivities.  Contrastingly “Pretty Little Bird,” finds Ross in the upper register of her voice with an innocent and tactile timbre. With each passing verse Ross flavors with delicate yet effective vocal colorizations as Cooper supports like a glove.

“Jacket Sleeve,” offers a sassy tune that clearly was the inspiration for the album title. Once again Ross gets into the character of the tune and honestly sells the lyric with an impassioned performance. Another highlight on the album is “Cresent (Nola Bound Again)” which captures the affinity that most musicians have for N’awlins. That town has its own character and eternally influences countless musicians with its depth and character. The stuff great songs are made of.

What Crossing Canal offers the listener is and honest journey of songs that speak about everyday life. The acoustic nature of the duet rings true, Ross and Cooper are believable and with each track their satiating sound rings true.

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