Ampersand EP

Here's a recommendation that comes to us via friend of musicmongers, Jimmy Jih.

Husband and wife Derek Webb (of Caedmon's Call) and Sandra McCracken have collaborated on a few songs to create Amersand EP. Derek brings a Christian Alternative/Indie sound and Sandra brings a little bit of country with a voice that reminds me a lot of Dolly Parton. I think that's a good thing, hopefully I didn't just ruin the album for Jimmy.

Interesting to me is what they say about their writing process and how they have very different big-picture vs details-oriented approaches. Although they've both have produced many projects over a number of years, it wasn't until now that they've finally made something together. Sandra writes on their webpage, "The truth is that even though our musical tastes are totally compatible, we approach songwriting from completely opposite directions. I'm very conceptual and abstract. And Derek is very meticulous and intentional. Down to each and every conjunction."

The liner notes encourage us to enjoy, copy, and share the music, so we are. I've uploaded my two favorite songs to our muxtape: When The Lights Go Out, and a Dylan cover, If Not For You. And for download, here's a third song Valentine.