2025 – The Kearns Family
By Phillip Smith; Jan. 26, 2025
Original source : phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com
The Kearns Family a singer/songwriting duo hailing from Joshua Tree,
California, has a gem of a record in their debut release Together and
Alone. With Pat Kearns on guitar and vocals, and Susan Kearns
on upright bass, this nine-track album was recorded at their solar-powered
recording studio Goat Mountain in the Mojave Desert. Their songs
are poignant and masterfully written with a deep sensibility.
“The Dust” a haunting, western-flavored ballad sets the tone. I love the little hints of Nick Drake which walk into the song with gentle guitar licks. “Bandito” immediately follows with a harmonica-accompanied intro which instantly reminds me of Neil Young. A Tarantino-esque vibe to this song about a manhunt across Mexico keeps the tone of the album flowing. Delivered much like the songs of John Prine and Tim Hardin, “The Old Days” beautifully reflects the sadness of loss and yearning for the old days. Delivered with a gravelly voice, “The Funny Thing About Keeping Moving” brilliantly sums up the life of an outlaw drifter. I can’t help but feel very moved with every listen to “Charlie”. The song is a touching tribute to an old friend who may have had some troubles, but was obviously loved.
Together and Alone steals my heart and takes my breath away with every listen.
For more information about The Kearns Family and to purchase this album, visit their Bandcamp page
