As I’m sure happens with others, some first listens turn into a succession of “wow, just wow” moments. Analysis doesn’t do much in those instances besides provide a comfortable couch, though I and thousands of others often attempt it, anyway. You can almost hear the therapist ask, “How does it make you feel?” What to say? That the vocals, guitar and, perhaps, poetic lyrics create something akin to a cacophony of zen? Or that when the voices blend together it’s that and nirvana, too?
Gabe Lee has won critical acclaim for his country-folk songs and albums, which are in league with the best lyricists of any genre. (Some might cite Jason Isbell or Patterson Hood, I’m sure, but given my graying age I lean more toward Steve Earle, Nanci Griffith and their mentor, Townes Van Zandt, as well as Lucinda Williams.) Bluegrass progeny Rylie Bourne, for her part, possesses a vocal prowess that’s equal measures grace and grit; that her work with Damon Atkins in the Southern rock-styled LoneHollow has yet to find a large audience says much about the inane state of the modern music scene. Lucciana Costa, on the other hand, is new to me, though a slide down the rabbit hole known as YouTube this morning has led me to many treasures—especially her work with Rachel Coats in King Margo.
The three recorded a demo for Lee’s “Long Time Ago” in 2019 and, now, have shared what Lee jokingly calls “the Walmart version of the Marfa Tapes.” It’s a touching, bittersweet story that’s rife with imagery of love’s lore, lure and mysticism.
The Old Grey Cat 
Great song ! Thanks for sharing. One can truly hear the branches cracking in the campfire.
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