Search - Ellsworth & Hicks, Ellsworth/Hicks :: Ask Around

Mellow and Funny: A Real Treat!

Shelly Leal | Brooklyn, New York | 12/28/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Here it is, folks, a charming collection of songs that presents various styles of its two singer/ songwriters. It's got folk, blues, country, a hint of Broadway showtunes and 50's doo-wop presented in a wonderfully spare production of guitar, clarinet and harmonica. This is the place to go for tight, mellow harmonies and funny, literate lyrics. Hicks' warm, amber voice provides a nice contrast to Ellsworth's brighter croonings. Their harmonies range from those reminiscent of Simon and Garfunkel on "Blame It On the Planets" to the country harmonies of "Sad Songs" and "Moonlight Over the Factories." "Well Dressed Man" is Beatlesque in more ways than one, from the whiff of its "Baby's In Black" harmonies to the seriousness of the music offset by its whimsical lyrics. "Moonlight" is an evocative, country-tinged paean to a small hometown with its simple, yearning melodies. "Family Tree Blues," "But I'm Not" and "Absolutely Maybe" reflect the humorous influence of Louis Jordan; these guys are having a good time and invite you to join in. Elegant in its simplicity, Ask Around satisfies."