Feel It Again

Hudson Taylor

Rubyworks Records, 2018

http://www.hudsontaylormusic.com

REVIEW BY: Tom Haugen

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 08/27/2018

Previously known as Harry & Alfie, this sibling Irish pair began busking in Dublin before hitting the charts in their home country. In just a few years, the duo has released several EPs and an album, often drawing comparisons to The Lumineers and Bright Eyes with their dreamy brand of folk-pop.my_heart_sings_the_harmony_web_ad_alt_250

Feel It Again may just be five tunes, but each one warrants multiple listens as the brothers put their strong songwriting on display with feel good vibes and a soothing, warm atmosphere. 

“Run With Me” starts the quick listen off with cozy acoustic guitars and sweet vocals, where breezy melodies allow it to soar with a timeless, free energy. It's a folksy tune, with the lasting power of your favorite tune from Mumford & Sons. It flows into “Easy Baby,” which follows a similar path, though a bit closer to the pop side and louder with keys, tambourines, congas, and guest vocals from Gabrielle Aplin.

After two impressive tracks, “Travelin'” brings us harmonicas and bright keys to deliver a bluesy, moutain-esque, country feel that starts sparse but ends like the party soundtrack to a deep woods adventure. “Old Soul” channels the early days of Iron & Wine, especially with the acoustic guitars, while the singing brings in female backing vocals for a wispy, breathy, campfire ballad. It's the barest tune here, and the best one I'd say, really revealing the beautiful chemistry between the brothers.

“Feel It Again” ends the EP with a rock 'n' roll tune complete with handclapping, a triumphant chorus, and a rousing anthemic quality that' is powerful and shows even more of the outfit’s depth and talent.

These young men – both only in their mid 20s – have got something really unique going on here. Remember the name, because you're going to be hearing a lot more of it in the future whether you like it or not (though most of us will be siding with the former).

Rating: A

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