Self-released

****

Five Letter Word are a trio from Portland Ohio comprising Audra Nemir, Clara Baker and Leigh Jones, all talented singers, songwriters and musicians who came together to pool their resources some 18 months ago. The group’s sensibility is both rustic and refined, mining folk, country, bluegrass and swing with a songs-first restraint to leave ample space for their captivating storyteller lyrics, mesmerizingly melancholy vocals, and achingly beautiful harmonies. SIREN, their debut album, is filled with colourful portraits of the struggle for dignity and significance by characters confronting personal watershed moments.

In keeping with long held traditions of folk and country, Cast Iron Skillet is a murder ballad with a chilling ending. In contrast Easier To Go is a poppy, dreamy song in an acoustic arrangement complete with vibrant harmonies. Hold Your Own is full of vivid imagery and a mix of melancholic and hopeful lyrics that complement the refreshing melody. Whimsical and sassy. Rumour Of The Money keeps things simple and earthy, capturing the trio's natural interplay but preserving just enough space and air to give this a little bit of grit without ever seeming too heavy. Siren Will Sound carries a gentle rolling vibe and shuffling tempo that adds to its hypnotic sway.  Elsewhere on the album, Eight Minute Call is a bustling and lively bluegrass-flavoured song before More Than Your Dog brings the album to a twinkling resolution.

Five Letter Word has managed to create a record which is both eclectic and cohesive, uniting distinctive musical worlds in a new and exciting sound. Of all their unique musical elements, the trio pride themselves most on featuring close, three-part harmony in each of their songs. All three members sing, play, and write their own music. Through impressive arrangements and harmonies, they've developed a live act that is appealing to a wide audience, and critics across generations have taken notice. Highly recommended.

www.fiveletterwordband.com

March 2019