Chris and Gileah – Self-Titled
I have the best job in the world even though it is not a job. I don’t get paid. On the other hand, I write only about what I like (at least, music-wise) and you cannot imagine the thrill of finding music which makes you compelled to write— music which almost drags you to the computer and tells you to write. And sometimes, when things work out, tells you what to write. It doesn’t happen that often, trust me, but when it does…..
Chris and Gileah’s new album, named appropriately enough Chris and Gileah has done just that. Dragged me to the computer. Swear to God. Ten seconds into the opening track, “The Gathered Storm”, and my mind started cranking, phrases and comparisons bumping into each other in the ol’ cranium, words trying to find one another in the anxiety, hoping to find just the right way to turn such beautiful music into mere words. Words are the bane of the writing process, in case you didn’t know, much in the same way as lyrics are to the songwriter. One word out of place or maybe a single sentence can destroy the flow or the intent of a song or a review. I struggle with words daily. I lose sleep over leaving a word out here or writing too many there. I sweat buckets knowing that my words could not possibly match the magnificence of some songs or even entire albums. And contrary to the popular thought that the best albums are the easiest to review, they are not. They are the hardest. So picture me at the computer, the songs of Chris and Gileah challenging me at every turn, words coming fast and furious and me knowing that no matter what I write, you can’t hear the music.
What I want to do is rave and beg you, for your own sakes, to head to the website, chrisandgileah.com, and listen to the one track they have posted for streaming. Track One on the album, in fact. “The Gathered Storm.” But I run the risk of raving too much and God knows the last thing readers want is someone tossing pom-poms in their faces. I shall attempt to curb my enthusiasm for your sakes, but know that it isn’t easy.
I fell in love with Gileah’s songwriting back in 2006 when she released The Golden Planes, so I have a jump on you. I have listened to her music so much it has become part of my DNA, but I have never heard her offset as well as she is on this album. Her writing is stellar, her voice beautiful and the way she works with Chris is magic.
Favorites have to be “The Gathered Storm,” which echoes one of my favorite songs of the past number of years, Fisher‘s “Water Burial”; “Miracles” for its early Gileah feel and totally separate (and perfectly haunting and inspirational— it brings tears to my eyes) ending; and the just-short-of-Americana “Curious”. Don’t get me wrong. The songs are all outstanding and work very well within the context of the album, but these drive stakes through my heart.
Lucky for you, you don’t have to take my word for it. In addition to visiting their website for the sampling mentioned above, they have produced a video to promote the album. I give you a preview of Chris and Gileah, scheduled for release May 27th. You’re welcome.