<![CDATA[The Express]]> <![CDATA[The Express]]> en-us Copyright 2008 - All Rights Reserved. Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:18:20 GMT 15 <![CDATA[The Civil Wars: A Duo in Harmony]]> By Chloe Strumpf

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DOWN TO BARTON HOLLOW: Joy Williams and John Paul White move closer as they belt out a tender ballad. The band has been touring together without a break for the past two years.

This Southern duo knows that it does not take complexity to convey emotion. Joy Williams and John Paul White make up The Civil Wars, a band that seems like it was meant to be. These two songwriters met while at a songwriting session in 2009, and found themselves immediately writing together as if they had known each other their entire lives. Their folk sound has been praised as part of the New Americana movement, identified by simple arrangements and delicate melodies. “The Civil Wars are very earthy...their dual strength of intonation seems to have the lingering quality of whispers spoken softly in the summer air,” said Max Blumen. Barton Hollow, their first LP, has reached number 20 on the charts, which comes as a surprise to many music listeners. It seems as if these two came out of nowhere, with little press surrounding the release. That is due to their independent attitude, with which they have gained a loyal following free of the pressures of excessive promotion. This well-crafted album has been very well received. Its mixture of haunting lyrics and sweet melodies create a unique sound that directly connects the listener to the personal stories Williams and White wish to tell. “Their music is so pure and simple, allowing the listener to really focus on the lyrics. Something about their harmonies makes me feel instantly warmer,” said Gabriella Angotti-Jones. The Civil Wars have gained quick-fire success, helped by both their opening slot on Adele’s last tour and recognition by popular artists such as Taylor Swift and Sara Bareilles. Now they are headlining their own tour, which will bring them both to North America and Europe. This whirlwind ride has not changed these musicians, as they have maintained the down-to-earth mindset that they began with. Aishani Ataliwala said, “while they’re not so well known now, I think people will really catch onto their mellow sound.” Live shows are a strength for this band. Their performances are recognizable by the closeness they maintain on stage, demonstrating the undeniable bond these two share. As shown in concerts and their own personal videos, the sheer emotion they put into each performance is contagious. On the topic of their personal connection, Joy Williams said, “a lot of people think we’re married, and I think that’s actually quite flattering...we don’t want people to think that we’re up here acting and feigning the emotions that we write and sing about and show on stage.” People should expect for The Civil Wars to continue to gain widespread acclaim. The duo has recently been nominated for Best Folk Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 2012 Grammy Awards. This band is here to show that a do-it-yourself attitude can get one farther than ever anticipated. ]]> Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:50:03 GMT