CD Review

You could argue that Hem’s first two studio albums, Rabbit Songs and Eveningland, could have been released as a double album, only because of the similarity of their sound, which was led by the comforting vocals of Sally Ellyson. And it’s also a safe bet that fans of Hem wouldn’t mind another ten or so albums that mimicked the same subtle magic. For the Brooklyn based Hem, what you initially hear is what you fall in love with—soft melodies, delicate instrumentals, and quiet, detailed musicianship that seems destined to be duplicated over a career.

The good news is that Hem’s newest album, Funnel Cloud, won’t alienate any fans who expect more of the same intimate beauty. But, to the band’s credit, a few changes do appear for the better, most notably Ellyson’s voice, which sounds more passionate and mature, especially on the opener “We’ll Meet Along The Way” and the country-flavored “Too Late To Turn Back Now” and “The Pills Stopped Working.” Chief songwriter Dan Messé also holds his strong form with the creation of classic Hem tunes like "Great Houses of New York” and the title track. If nothing else, Funnel Cloud serves as the perfect soundtrack for a cool, lazy Sunday morning, one that you’ll have no problem enjoying over and over again.