| Joni Mitchell, John Lennon, and Bob Dylan, Josie's distinctive singing style and stark emotional movements have made her and bandmate Tom Duksta a regular in the new england music scene. Currently, Josie and the band have released just one album ("Soundcheck", 2004), with one on the way ("Chasing Yellow", to be released this year). Both should be available from their website.
ABOUT THE SONG:
"Peace Breathes Through You" starts out with just Josie on her twelve string, goes softly through a count (you can actually hear Josie 1-2-3-4-ing in the background here) and then slams into a dark waltz about uncommon wanting and untendered passion. Josie comes in like a storm, tapering off with clear highs and a capable delivery just aggressive enough to nail the song in place and drive it home. With great stops and starts and a wonderful mood change to the bridge, this relatively lengthy song (by today's standards) drives by without you even noticing you just spent the last four-and-a-half minutes listening to it. By the time everything winds down, you're ready for another play. ON THE DOWNSIDE:
The recording quality -- especially in the beginning -- is a little rough. Almost a bit TOO lo-fi. While this levels out rather nicely as the song moves along, it kind of gives me the sense that the whole song was recorded with a four track in a living room somewhere. This definitely detracts from things earlier on; especially when the kick in the drums steps in. Taking this song to a real studio would make this an incredible track, without the recording distractions. At the same time, however, the rustic quality of the recording does have a nice, warm, familiar quality. STRONG POINTS:
Strangely enough, while it's obvious this was recording using rather sparse equipment, it kind of works. Somehow the levels work out and the compression does its job. The "live feel" of this particular version is nice, however I'd still love to hear this song go through a professional studio. Considering all the things that could go wrong with this setup, it's amazing that it sounds as clean as it *does*. Also, a nice solo from Tom that somehow rises above the din of the rest of the band and carries us through and out of the bridge like a pro. THE CONCLUSION?:
Josie Crosby's "Peace Breathes Through You" is a great demo version of this song for lovers of good folk music; and while it's powerful as it is, a better recording would do it some justice. Keep tabs on Josie and the band by going to her website at http://www.thejosieband.com
Julian Rai
BandFreaks Staff Reviewer |
