Album Review: Sky One Room by Winchester Warm

Last November, Winchester Warm, a folk-acoustic duet from Ottawa, released their first LP titled, Sky One Room. Ever since the group have been touring all over Canada winning audiences over. The group, consisting of drummer Matt Godin, and guitarist, Jon Pearce have been admired for their complex, two part vocal arrangements.

However, there must have been something lost in the recording process, which took place in the historic McLeod-Stewarton United Church by Jarrett Bartlett in Centretown Ottawa. The vocals on the album delivered by both Godin and Pearce require a bit more practice. The songs have incredibly profound, lyrics full of intense imagery which is lost in the lack of enunciation from both singers. The pitch of Pearce's voice also requires more work as it is a bit off tune and he does not have a great range.

It is definitely a unique style of vocal arrangement, similar to California's Counting Crows or even the vocals delivered by In-Flight Safety. However, Sky One Room lacks the range, and full sound delivered by these two bands. The vocals can be a bit difficult to listen to, but there are some moments of excellent singing on the album especially the song "Rubberneck" where Godin and Pearce are on the same wavelength and create moving harmonies.

Instrumentally, the album spews positive energy and mellow vibes. The whole sound blends country and folk music very well creating a good soundtrack to walk to. Using only two members, the group still creates a very full and ambient sound. They know have an amazing chemistry and are able to incorporate soft piano and banjo riffs making the sound much more complete.

The group will be performing in Halifax on January 17th at The Carleton and if the many reviews of their live performance hold true it will be an intimate and soothing experience. Hopefully, since touring the group will have gained some experience and will be able to deliver a stronger vocal performance.

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