First Listen: The CarLeans “Irene”

There is a hurt in the tone and emotion of the tune “Irene” by The CarLeans. Jim Carpenter has a John Prine or late-in-life Johnny Cash whisper and cut to his voice. Soft and hushed in a way but still gruff and meaningful in its delivery. It begs you to pay attention and lean in close to listen at the softer parts of the song.

she was late, in the early Spring 
it was fate, she lied, now she wears your ring
those church bells rang like a siren
she was showin by then and you were gone, Irene

The tune builds nicely, while remaining bare. Sarah MacLean’s tender harmony vocal blends beautifully with Carpenter’s rasp and the string arrangements dance delicately around the story of the song.

Check out this single from The CarLeans today and check in on the band’s site for the official release of the full record “Drowing Moon”. The CD Release party will be happening on  February 13 at the Eugene O’Neill Rose Barn in Waterford, CT. at 7pm.

About the band: The CarLeans are a musical collaboration between Connecticut based musicians Jim Carpenter (guitar, vocals), Sarah MacLean (guitar, vocals) and Corina Malbaurn (bass, vocals). The blending of their diverse musical backgrounds creates a captivating musical experience. Steeped in passion for story telling and navigating the human experience, their original songs are raw and powerful – paired with a delivery and live performance that’s honest and marked by well-placed musicianship and vocal presence. There’s a versatile sound that comes from the three piece rooted in Americana/folk music, but extends through Country/Pop/Blues/Cajun.