The Sweetness, a quartet formed from two Canadians and two Americans, are a folk rock band with a formidable resume. All four members are both accomplished musicians and songwriters. They also all sing and make beautiful four part harmonies together. What's more remarkable is that they formed, recorded and released this EP in just three weeks. The depth in the music is shocking for a three week old band. The vocal harmonies are reminiscent of the best work of the Be Good Tanyas, fusing equal parts of old time folk and jazz vocals. The music is both upbeat and playful, but also uses plaintive tones (such as a bowed upright bass) to keep the tempo down and in the old time roots feel. This album is just six songs long, but shows intriguing directions and the remarkable talents of all involved. I definitely want to hear more!

By Steve Marlow
Sep 10, 2011