Review!
June/July 2005. #118
Dirty Linen
page 83
Leela and Ellie Grace
[self-released (2003)]
This
is a delightfully charming recording by sisters Leela and Ellie Grace,
children of long-time folk performers Paul & Win Grace. The album
offers up a nice mix of contemporary songs by the likes of Carla
Sciaky, Dar Williams, Tim O'Brien, and Robin & Linda Williams,
some traditional pieces, four original songs by Leela, and one by
Ellie. The sisters work well in both worlds. The songwriter material
tends toward social issues and is well balanced without being
heavy-handed. On traditional material like "Shady Grove/Half Past
Four," the unaccompanied "Down in the Valley to Pray,"
and the instrumental "Ducks on the Millpond/Julianne
Johnson" (complete with percussive stepdance), they show a strong
respect for the past as well. The two have strong, expressive voices
that harmonize well together. The production by Pete Sutherland is
modern and clean, with the sisters' mandolin, fiddle, banjo, and
guitar being lightly supported by electric/acoustic guitars,
accordion, fiddle, and piano. (JLe)
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