Shiny and the Spoon - Ferris Wheel

Shiny And The Spoon’s debut CD Ferris Wheel is a light and lilting, feather-sensitive acoustic affair, but don’t be fooled by the smooth veneer of the band’s soft sound. This is far from the stuff of unicorns and rainbows. A deep current of romantic skepticism that runs just beneath the calm surface of these still waters is perfectly encapsulated in the metaphorical implications of the album-opening “Snowflake”. Over a lightly strummed acoustic guitar, vocalist Amber Nash displays a presence of mind that is rarely in our grasp during the first warm blush of a new love, gently reminding us - or herself, perhaps - that this blessed and unique thing will melt away all too soon.

Throughout the disc, Nash and guitarist Jordan Neff display an amazing gift for vocal harmonies that are sweet as pie and soft as a cotton ball. Liberally sprinkled with Southern gothic imagery and late summer malaise, their deceptively simple lyrics convey a great depth of emotion. With a singular blend of cynicism and grace, Ferris Wheel carries itself with quiet humility like a silent spinster aunt in a Steinbeck novel.

The perfect accompaniment for the duo’s clever lyrics and infectious melodies is Neff’s subtle string-work, coolly weaving through each tune like a smiling serpent through tall grass. Late in the proceedings, “13 Crates” hints at a completely different direction. Neff turns up the grit just a little bit here, revealing a strain of dark Blues unheard on the rest of the record. The juxtaposition of this ominous minor key lament among a crop of largely lighter fare creates an unexpected mood twist and perhaps points towards uncharted territory to be explored in the future.

The duo’s excellent songcraft and natural harmonies are a winning combination that casually propels Ferris Wheel with a confidence refreshingly free of ego. This is perhaps best exemplified by their cover of Malvina Reynolds’ “No Hole In My Head”, wherein the duo’s clever command of acoustic instrumentation and self-assured irreverence creates a lighthearted new spin on the blues.

Shiny And The Spoon’s CD release show is tonight in the Southgate House Ballroom. This evening’s impressive itinerary also features Lisa Walker, The Rubber Knife Gang, and The Hiders. The show starts at 9pm.