THE GREENCARDS
Weather and Water (Dualtone)
Reviewed by Erick Mertz

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An album that starts off with a whimper rarely gets a second listen on its way into the dismiss bin. In the case of the Greencards, my indication was to turn it off after "The Ghost of Who We Are," a fine but misplaced ballad that later in the album's span of twelve songs would be construed as a highlight.

The Greencards are more, and have more to offer, however, than a few little ballads. Their album Weather and Water is full of cross-over newgrass/pop country tunes, and its authors have already been named Best New Band at the Austin Music Awards. The remainder of the songs after "The Ghost of Who We Are" are sweet, boot heel appealing, and delightfully instinctual. To go to #5 on the Americana chart, and sell 10,000 albums from a van tailgate, is an accomplishment very few bands can boast.

The songs on Weather and Water are highlighted by ballads like "Time" and "What You Are," a fact that might sway a certain listener. A dose of reflective music like this is unique; in the proper time and place, the Greencards are an afternoon delight.

© 2005 - Erick Mertz