Rattlin’ Bones - Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson

The 14 songs are all written, or co-written, by Chambers and Nicholson. Each song is a casual journey, winding through the tales and woes of life. It is the harmonies that truly illuminate these songs, and drive them home. Chambers strong soaring vocals are contrasted pleasingly well by Nicholson’s.

The title cut, which opens the CD, is a somewhat haunting tale of strife and despair. Nicholson’s banjo lead, along with a dreary heavy beat, paint an amazing picture of loneliness. The instrumentals throughout the CD do a very good job of creating a mood which flows well with the lyrical content, allowing the listener to feel the warmth and passion.

The only negative to the CD is its lack of upbeat songs. While they are all well written and performed, the song material steers a bit more toward depression and loneliness than the positives in life. With songs such as “Once In A While,” which talks of grasping for only a moment of happiness, “One More Year,” that talks of holding onto hope a bit longer, and “The House That Never Was,” which portrays the lack of love leaves one with nothing. Most of the songs follow the path of dreary loneliness and sorrow. However, the pure roots of Appalachian and bluegrass each followed a similar dark path as well.

Chambers has seen prior success with previous releases, and is one of Australia’s most respected female artists. Her husband Shane also got his music start in Australia. This CD is their first mutual release. With quality roots music like this, we can only hope there is more to come.

Tags: Kasey Chambers, Reviews, Shane Nicholson