Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins: Rabbit Fur Coat

Jenny Lewis is the frontwoman of those indie rockers, Rilo Kiley. The Watson Twins are, as you may have guessed, twin, formerly of Slydell. Together, this trio manage to craft some amazing lyrics and sonics.

The direction of this album from Lewis's previous works in Rilo Kiley is both stunning and amazing. The sound blends a bluegrassy sound from what I imagine would be the Appalachian region and a classic country sound (think Patsy Cline). Some tunes venture closer to the soft-rock realm, but not too much.

Most tunes are Lewis originals, but the cover of the Traveling Wilburys' tune "Handle With Care," featuring Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes and Ben Gibbard of Death Cab For Cutie, is handled well, and honours the original.

The Big Guns, Rise Up With Fists, Rabbit Fur Coat, and Handle With Care all tickle the senses just right and show the range and strength of this solo release.

In the End: I have a feeling Rilo Kiley fans may not ALL jump on this, which is a shame, but the album has strong appeal. The sound is different and the Watson Twins harmonize well, adding great depth. The mainstream appeal is not really there, but that's ok. This disc should end up on everyone's "Must Listen" lists of 2006.