Record Review - 1 June 15 2005

It is probably due to more than fate that at least for the time being, vocalist/fiddle player Caitlin Cary and neo-classic country singer Thad Cockrell have formed a duet act. Based on their respective musical histories, it is obvious that Cary and Cockrell are kindred spirits in terms of influences and styles. Cary's solo work since leaving Whiskeytown and the all-girl trio Tres Chicas demonstrates her deep love and commitment to making great Americana-style music. And Cockrell is as country as they come, with a fine, high, lonesome voice and a knack for writing a honky-tonk hook.

Begonias finds the pair sharing vocals and writing choruses on nine of the 11 tracks, and their voices blend like they were born to sing together. Musically, they do a great job of keeping it country in the tradition of Conway and Loretta or even George and Tammy, although the gimmick wears a bit thin near the end. What works best for the duo is material such as the edgy "Two Different Things," which exposes the gap between dreams and reality, and the two-stepping "Party Time," capturing the dichotomy of committed romance and the need for freedom. Cary and Cockrell deliver the knockout on the sweet, melancholy "Conversations About a Friend (Who's in Love with Katie)" - accentuated by some stunning steel guitar work from Pete Finney - which would have been a perfect tune for Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris. That's probably the best compliment a duet act can get.

Caitlin Cary & Thad Cockrell's CD release party is at Smith's Olde Bar Fri., June 17. Drew Deman opens at 9 p.m. $10 (advance). 1578 Piedmont Ave. 404-875-1522. www.smithsoldebar.com.??