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Monday, March 7, 2011

Photos / Live Reviews / News Live review: Matrimony

Posted By on Mon, Mar 7, 2011 at 11:18 AM

Matrimony

Visulite Theatre

March 4, 2011

The Deal: Charlotte's Matrimony performs at the Visulite Theatre for small but enthusiastic crowd.

Matrimony1

The Good: Charlotte's Matrimony may be familiar to some as the husband and wife duo of Jimmy Brown and Ashlee Hardee Brown, but the group's complete lineup is one that adds depth and energy not heard on the band's debut EP. Bassist Shae Wooten, banjo/multi-instrumentalist Jordan Hardee (formerly of the Paper Tongues) and drummer Alex have completed the group's sound.

Matrimony3

Those only familiar with the seven songs from its debut will not only find new life by the addition of the newer members, but also hear songs not on the album that are just as strong as the initial offerings. The energy and emotion of "Flee or Fight" is matched by the newer song, and show closer, "Obey Your Guns" — both personal favorites.

The harmonies from Jimmy and Ashlee aren't conventional in the sense you might expect from a family bond, but those of a married couple that offer perfect compliment. The sweet and soothing tone of Ashlee is the right highlight to the straight-forward style of Jimmy. The band's music also takes a different characteristic with the use of keyboard and banjo, layering what might be a traditional folk sound that takes rock hints and finds sporadic Irish inspiration from Belfast-native Jimmy.

Matrimony2

Not too long ago, the band was at Snug Harbor and it was easy to see how, in the last few weeks, the band has bonded and continues to grow tighter, more relaxed and united in its performances. Whether soft and full of emotion or strong-handed and full of bite, the energy and love of the music shines through with every word and note.

The Bad: Only that more people weren't there on a Friday night.

The Verdict: Talented songwriting, strong lyrical abilities, great energy from a quintet that grows stronger with each performance... if you're curious about which Charlotte band will be the next to hit it big, I'd easily wager on Matrimony. The band is garnering praise from every tour stop and is hitting the road this week to venture to SXSW.

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