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The simplicity and lack of post-production elements on Jodie Jean Marston’s latest CD is somewhat of a double-edged sword. While there is certainly something charming about the lack of slick fabrication on this release that lends itself to the indie-spirit created by labels such as Secret Eye, there are moments in which the listener finds themselves wincing, in much the same way that a mother does sitting in the audience of her son’s first piano recital, as she recognizes the sound of fingers hitting the wrong keys. On the other hand, this same lack of production certainly validates Marston’s vocals, which require no extra polishing or post-production editing to make them alluring or beautiful. This is simple mountain-folk music, combining primarily strummed guitar and flute, accompanied by Marston’s earthy and arresting vocals, and that calls to mind crimson sunsets over endless prairies. Clearly, this is the kind of release that will attract a limited audience, but those that do find their way to Mountain is a Mountain are bound to be impressed Marston’s distinctive vocals and simple, organic arrangements.
JENNIFER JONES
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