Nickel Creek
Why Should the Fire Die?

THE REVIEW

The company Watkins & Thile aka Nickel Creek, has been producing excellent country/bluegrass in California for a few years now, almost like it used to be done. But let's take a closer look at what exactly we're dealing with here:

We have two siblings, Sara and Sean Watkins, on violin and guitar, and Chris Thile on mandolin, accompanied by a powerful and percussive double bass played by Mark Shatz. The lead vocal alternates in various tracks, and the three harmonize in a very moving way. Here we're talking about their third album, from 2005 which, turned ROCK, sounds obviously a bit more out of the usual (beautiful) ROOTS (think country/irish) patterns.

In fact, it is the first time their producer is not Alison Krauss, their discoverer - yes, the same Queen of modern country (yes, in the USA she is a queen) who created that roots gem "Raising Sand" two years ago with His Majesty Robert Plant.

And so, there's a change of pace. The atmospheres become a bit darker, more aggressive compared to the two previous works. Just listen to "Eveline", "Can't Complain", "Best Of Luck" up to the peak of "Helena", the standout piece of the batch in question. It feels like listening to a rock band in an acoustic session, and the effect is nothing short of enchanting. 

It's one of those CDs that you drink like Coca-Cola, in three sips, the kind that doesn't let you leave the car even if you've reached your destination, you turn up the volume full blast (with "Helena" you do it naturally because it's already upbeat) and off with the grand finale and rowdy choruses!

...and you're embarrassed, as if you were caught with your fingers in your nose!

There are three instrumental tracks in line with tradition, among which stands out the highly entertaining "Stumptown", highlighting the remarkable technical skills of the group.

Also noteworthy is a cover of Dylan's "Tomorrow Is A Long Time", superbly sung by Sara.

I saved the bad news for last, that is the three youngsters split up after this impressive work (I'm overusing typical DeBaser language), but don't cry, please, because the three have each opened their own individual ventures, where each sings their own tunes, and quite well too. Just recently, Sara's solo album was released which, (but look at the coincidences) is supported on the setup by the two guys. Round and round it goes...

Recommended for rockers, but with a sweet heart!