At first, you might be tempted to say, "Is that a Sixpence tune?" The breathy, pop soprano vocals are definitely reminiscent of Leigh Nash, and at times, the guitars could pass for Slocum fingering. Nonetheless, R&V does not seem derivative. Instead, they envelop a style that is often attempted by too many bands that cannot carry it out as well as Rivulets does here. This album does not disappoint in any way.
Right off the bat, there is a depth to this album, which creates a strong orchestral feel. Rather than layering several tracks of the same vocalist, there are three strong female voices, complementing each other nicely. (Recently Jen Hollingsworth, Robyn Spitzer, and Mindy Verdecchio have been added to R&V to share the vocal responsibilities, while Masaki, — famed Five Iron Frenzy producer, as well as former member of Dime Store Prophets — handles guitar, and violin, along with Sam Hernandez on bass.) Guest appearances by Phil Peterson on cello, and Sherri Youngward, on vocals, give more texture to several tracks.
On the song, "I Hate You" (sort of a rant about the tricks the Devil plays on us which makes us hate him) there's nearly a Dixie Chicks quality, which employs rhythmic rock guitar, and some fiddles with twang. Not limiting themselves into any sort of corner, R&V would just as easily take those same violins and add a dash of Vivaldi, or Mozart to the mix. "In the Stars" stands out as one of the best tracks. Developed thoroughly, crafted together with charming strings, delicious harmonies, it is like a perfect pop confection. "I See With New Eyes" bursts in its own beauty. If it came down to describing the whole album, it would be best said that each song drips with 'je ne c'est quois.'
If there is one tangible quality about this album that makes it so beautiful, it is the same thing that made the debut albums of Jars of Clay and Sixpence so beautiful and enchanting. Perhaps it is the constructed simplicity that at the same time is so complicated and wistful. At times worshipful, and humble, and sometimes playful, and bright, Rivulets & Violets wear a multi-colored coat that could both be a source of envy and admiration.
Other coverage for this album
ReAL Magazine 2000Reviewed by Adam L.Have you ever had a CD that you put away for months at a time, only to discover you really like it? Such is the case with Promise, the major label debut album for Rivulets & Violets, a San Francisco acoustic rock band with some killer connections. Just what are those connections, you ask? Well, the major one is Masaki, who has been a producer for bands such as Dime Store Prophets, Five Iron…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Chelsea LewisAfter many changes to Rivulets and Violets' band lineup and sound, their newest album, Promise, is a new beginning for the band. The new lineup consists of Jen Hollingsworth, Robyn Spitzer and Mindy Verdecchio on vocals, Masaki playing guitar and violin, and Sam Hernandez playing bass. The original band was the creation of Masaki, who had released an album called Rivulets and Violets, but that…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Kerry MaffeoThough freely compared with the likes of Sixpence None The Richer and Sarah McLachlan, Rivulets and Violets charms their way through their latest album replete with a variety of styles and musical influence evidences to comprise their latest, Promise. Although musically similar to others in their genre, Rivulets and Violets present a beautiful blend of sweet vocals, gutsy melodies and thought…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Steven S. BaldwinPretty and perfect; delicate and delicious. Layers of wispy female vocals harmonizing together smoothly. Waves of well played guitars, ranging from jangly to atmospheric. Deftly played percussion, poetic lyrics, and the occasional orchestrated flute, violin and cello arrangements. Songs that carefully combine mood and a touch of melancholy in an ultimately upbeat way. Sound familiar? If imitation…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Matthew RiddleRivulets & Violets' second release, Promise, has been a long time coming. I can remember going to a Dime Store Prophets/Model Engine (Black Eyed Sceva)/Dryve concert and seeing Rivulets and Violets' t-shirts for sale, not to mention hearing a few of their songs on a 5 Minute Walk sampler that I picked up about the same time. That was in 1997. I believe it was just Masaki and Jen Hollingsworth at…Similar sounding releases
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