Storyhill are a duo of Chris Cunningham and John Hermanson who have been playing together since 1989 and have put out a number of successful independent releases. They started straight out of high school and over the next 5 years or so built up an enviable live reputation on the US college circuit; the mid 90s saw them travel in different directions and after a successful ‘farewell’ tour they each went their separate ways.
Now back in the same country, they’ve got back together, recorded a great album and had it picked up for national release by a Redhouse Records.
This self-titled album is a good blend of Americana and folk with pop sensibilities thrown in for good measure (a comparison with Ellis Paul works well) – it’s a mainly acoustic release with guitars forming the main backing but there’s ample instrumentation including accordion, piano, bass & percussion providing colour to the songs.
Where the disc excels is in the vocals and harmonies, both Chris and John take their turn with the lead but singing together they evoke the spirit of Simon & Garfunkle with their range and interplay. This comparison stands scrutiny as there’s a similar timeless quality across the 11 songs – while it’s obviously a contemporary recording in quality and presentation, there’s a ‘comfortable’ feeling through the disc that makes it easy to enjoy. Songs like ‘Give up the Ghost’ and ‘Paradise Lost’ highlight this perfectly, falling somewhere between folk and pop, the instant melodies and beautiful harmonies make it impossible not to enjoy.
Well written lyrics, accessible melodies and a real sense of fun just about sum up this album – a perfect spring/summer release with broad appeal.

£13.49