CommonUnion59 - Heartbeat Serenade (Self-Released)

It’s so rare these days to get warm and beautiful close harmonies in a classical country style, not unlike The Everly Brothers or The Louvin Brothers, and CommonUnion59 do not disappoint with the first song, “It’s Alright,” on their new album, Heartbeat Serenade. Taking a country rock foundation and adding a dash of Beatlesque harmonics and melodicism, this San Francisco group has concocted an infectious creation immediately from the start. A duo comprised of Steve McKenzie and Laura Malasig, these two have the hard to find gift of possessing two voices seemingly destined to harmonize together, and they use it to beautiful effect here.

Going for a rootsy vibe similar to the Country Rock eras of Bob Dylan and The Byrds, some songs here are more restrained and beautifully intimate like “Little White House” which finds Malasig sounding remarkably like Emmylou Harris while others are more gently rollicking like the Appalachian “American Dream.” Nevertheless, there is never a disappointing moment here. A sure highlight of the album, however, is their stunning cover of Donovan’s “Catch The Wind,” wherein their harmonies adapt perfectly to an already beautiful and poignant song. Heartbeat Serenade is an emotional yet unassuming production, and one not to be missed. The album will released February 11th.