North Twin is just enough truth hidden in a pack of dirty, rotten lies to make you feel like you've been someplace.North Twin "Stronger at the Broken Places" (Independent 2009) AMERICANA UKNorth Twin’s second release "Stronger at the Broken Places" was written and recorded under the shadow of Rebecca Young’s (bass, vocals) diagnosis with breast cancer. As a result many of the songs reflect ‘fear of death’ and ‘fear of love’. Surprisingly this is an edgy and vigorous record full of songs from the top draw of country rock. The influences from The Byrds (Sweetheart of the Rodeo) era, Ozarks & The Marshall Tucker Band are here plus more contemporary acts such as Reckless Kelly and Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash. In the last year or so the band have supported The Bottle Rockets, Son Volt & The Drams. Musically and lyrically there is nothing innovative here but there is much to enjoy even if they are travelling a well-worn path.The four-piece band consists of main songwriter Tony Fulgham (guitar & vocals), Rebecca Young, Tim DiJulio (guitar & vocals) plus Rick Cranford on drums. Various additional musicians add piano, organ, accordion and most notably Billy Joe Huels trumpet on "Clear As Day" where this and guitar trade licks. The band is at home with straight ahead country rock on songs "Going Down" or more contemplative songs such as "I Remember You" and the closing song "Black River".Country rock never sounded so good…recommended.Date review added: Saturday, November 22, 2008 Reviewer: andy riggs Reviewers Rating: 8 out of 10North Twin - Stronger At The Broken Places [Album Review] by WOODY on HearYa.com JANUARY 6, 2009A couple of times a year we come across a release that, in addition to the music, has a back story that makes the HearYa staff pull a little bit more for the band. Three days into the recording of their prior album, North Twin bassist/vocalist Rebecca Young was diagnosed with breast cancer. She never missed a beat and met the disease straight on, barely missing any studio time. I am sure we’ve all known someone afflicted by this horrible disease and its always inspiring to read about someone with Rebecca’s fight and resolve.Inspirational story aside, we wouldn’t posting anything about the Seattle quartet if the music didn’t deliver. The first song, “Hope It All Goes Away,†is a beautiful poignant tune that hits you between the eyes after you hear of Young’s battle. Lead singer Tony Fulgham’s voice does a fantastic job of filling the tune with a perfect amount of emotion to deliver the goods.“Clear As Day†has a little bit more outlaw alt-country in it, telling the tale of a man who’s made some questionable choices in his life. It peaks with a blistering guitar/trumpet solo that really kicks you in the ass.Stronger At The Broken Places is a fresh piece of alt-country with a great back story. North Twin are also looking for gigs at SXSW 2009 so if anybody is interested, shoot us an email at [email protected] and we’ll put you in touch with the band.
