Formed by the dynamic duo of Clare Bowen and Brandon Robert Young, Bowen Young is a musical collaboration that transcends genres, blending their individual talents to create soul-stirring melodies in a style they affectionately term ‘cinematic Americana’ on new album ‘Us.’
Clare Bowen’s journey began in rural Australia before she made her mark in Music City, Nashville, in 2012. Portraying the character of Scarlett O’Connor in the acclaimed TV series ‘Nashville,’ Bowen not only captured audiences’ hearts but also earned the respect of Nashville’s music elite. Immersed in the city’s vibrant music scene, she found mentors in Grammy-winning producers and songwriters like T-Bone Burnett and Buddy Miller. Bowen’s musical prowess has led her to share the stage with luminaries such as Vince Gill and the Zac Brown Band.
Hailing from Connecticut, Brandon Robert Young discovered his passion for music at an early age, guided by his mother’s influence. Relocating to Nashville, Young immersed himself in the city’s rich musical tapestry, teaching himself to play guitar while balancing a day job as a courier. His dedication paid off, leading him to a decade-long tenure touring with John Hiatt and collaborating with esteemed artists like Emmylou Harris and Colin Linden. It was fate that brought Bowen and Young together in 2013 when Young stepped in as a last-minute replacement for Bowen’s absent duet partner, marking the beginning of their musical journey as Bowen Young.
Together, Bowen and Young co-wrote nine out of the ten tracks on their album, collaborating with notable producers like Sean McConnell, Mikky Ekko, and Roger Alan Nichols. Their music weaves a narrative that resonates deeply, capturing the essence of their individual experiences and shared musical journey. ‘Us,’ is a testament to their unique blend of musical influences, crafting a sound that merges elements of theatre, alt-rock, Americana, and folk. Throughout the album, listeners are treated to a sonic journey that evokes comparisons to a collaboration between The Civil Wars, Springsteen, Mumford & Sons, and The Killers, yet Bowen Young maintains their distinct identity.
The opening track, ‘Water to Wine,’ sets the tone with joyous Springsteen-esque drums and harmonica, infusing the album with an infectious energy and toe-tapping melodies. As Bowen and Young express their love for each other, their voices intertwine seamlessly, culminating in an anthemic chorus that captivates from the start.
‘Hair of the Dog’ follows suit with its singalong chorus and relatable theme of self-doubt and anxiety, all while showcasing the duo’s impeccable harmonies and musical chemistry. The song’s piano flourishes and handclaps add depth to its foot-stomping rhythm, making it a standout track destined to ignite festival tents worldwide.
One of the album’s highlights, ‘God Forbidden,’ stands out with its dramatic instrumentation and soulful vocals, reminiscent of Teddy Swims meets Amy Winehouse. The track’s southern voodoo drama and pop layers create a captivating atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.
Throughout the album, tracks like ‘Seven Days,’ ‘Aurora,’ and ‘Gets Late Early’ showcase Bowen Young’s versatility and lyrical depth, drawing inspiration from classic country duos, folklore, and rock anthems. ‘Gets Late Early’ is a particular standout. A haunting, atmospheric first verse grabs your attention as the duo sing dramatic lyrics in a sort of The Killers esque way. ‘Angels and devils on every corner…..I laugh so I don’t cry,’ they sing as the song explodes after the first verse on this dramatic, lyrically evocative Folk Rock anthem that leaves an indelible memory on the listener long after the song has finished.
Whether it’s the haunting vocals on the cover of Beyonce’s ‘Halo,’ the anthemic energy of ‘World Brand New,’ or the introspective, evocative intimacy of ‘To the Bone,’ each song on ‘Us’ offers a unique glimpse into Bowen Young’s musical world. The duo celebrate their love for each other from the opening track to the closer, bookending this album in relatable emotions and joyous celebration.
In essence, ‘Us’ is a masterful fusion of genres, offering a rich tapestry of sound that resonates with authenticity and emotion. Bowen Young’s ability to craft cinematic narratives through their music sets them apart as a formidable duo in the music industry, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating what they’ll create next.
Tracklist: 1. Water to Wine 2. Hair of the Dog 3. God Forbidden 4. Seven Days 5. Us 6. Aurora 7. Halo 8. Gets Laye Early 9. World Brand New 10. To the Bone Release Date: May 3rd Record Label: Snakefarm Buy ‘Us’ right here.
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