Jenny Lewis/Watson Twins: Rabbit Fur Coat

Herald rating: ****

Country trad-itionalism takes a step forward while keeping one foot in the past, which can make for an impressive balancing act.

Songwriter-singer Lewis from LA (who fronts the indie-outfit Rilo Kiley) and Kentucky harmonists the Watsons have some handy help here in the shape of Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes), M Ward and a couple of Maroon 5 members on these neo-folk outings, plus a straight cover of the Traveling Wilburys Handle With Care where everyone steps up to sing the Orbison, Harrison, Dylan and Petty parts - with mixed results, although Lewis imbues the lyrics with some unexpected depth.

They stake their claim to that old-time music with an a cappella intro before spinning off into The Big Guns, where they immediately call up lost love and deliver it with a rural back-porch kick.

Lean melodies, Lewis' charming voice and some smart real-world lyrics work well. Those who liked some of the less hokey offshoots of the Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? phenomenon will find plenty to enjoy here in a more contemporary and upbeat take on simple and heartfelt songs.


Label: Rough Trade/Shock