It is strange to encounter an album that feels so familiar and so fresh at the same time. The Cactus Blossoms’ sophomore album, You’re Dreaming, draws quick comparisons to duos like The Everly Brothers and The Louvin Brothers because of Page Burkham and Jack Torrey’s gorgeous harmonies. Their singing sounds effortless–they’ve worked that hard at it.
Lyrically, The Cactus Blossoms are closer to early country and folk music than to contemporary Americana. The album’s first track, “Stoplight Kisses,” includes the lines: “When I pull up to the crosswalk, ease up on the small talk, you know what’s on my mind. / I loosen up my seatbelt, made it really heartfelt kissin’ time to the don’t walk sign.” They remind me of what Pokey LaFarge is doing with his throw-back approach to New Orleans influenced western swing. In some ways, it’s a bigger challenge to write sincere music that is somewhat anachronistic than it is to just fit in with what others are doing.
The album has been a great companion as winter has settled in. It’s been great in the car, in the background while cooking dinner or while dancing with my kids to get the ya-yas out. I think folks who like The Milk Carton Kids will be happy to find The Cactus Blossoms. The songs are well crafted and delivered with precision, with great lines that sound right the first time and then grow on you: “You’re the end of my scheme / You’re my best-fitting pair of jeans / Like a dream, I’ll awaken your heart.”
My favorite tune on the album is “Adios Maria” with its spare accompaniment and really shows off the bass in Jack Torrey’s voice during the verses and the duo’s ability to soar in the chorus. “Adios, Maria, I’ll meet you in Paradise / If the good lord is willing and the creek don’t rise.”
I hope they’ll be coming east this summer. I can imagine a breakout performance at Newport. In the meantime, give You’re Dreaming a good listen–it will be available Friday, January 22.