This CD is misleading. On first glance, the wrapper and the case in which the CD resides gives the impression that it is generic, just like the cheap macaroni and ketchup that graced many a college table with its plain white box and black print. Generic is as generic does, because the quality of the music and the tasty playing within bode well for the listener, just as the generic macaroni often tasted as good as the real thing. The music is fresh, acoustically played on way-cool orange guitars, and the Kennedys are fine at all of it.

The music is a blend of different tones and color. However, even though they are the Kennedys, they are not a group that plays Irish songs for the tourists, nor are they roadies for Riverdance. While their songs do contain some mystic Celtic qualities, such as on their lovely "Angels and Sand" and "Don't Hold Your Breath," this is not to imply that they favor any one genre over another. As troubadours in the 21st century, Pete and Maura Kennedy write the words that the muses whisper in their ears, and the just tunes follow.

This CD has some fun songs on it, as well. The first track, "Dharma Cafe," is full of good humor, with some Bangles or other girl-group winks thrown in. As the liner notes refer to the first track, "Dharma Cafe" is an ode to your favorite boho coffeehouse. How can a CD not be original with a new word from bohemian/SoHo added to the mix? The Kennedys are original, new wave/retro/soulful/free-spirited singers and songwriters who make an original dish out of the generic music so often written and produced today.

- Rambles
written by Ann Flynt
published 20 March 2004