I recently had a chance to see the Mailman's Children perform live and I am glad I went. Not only are they excellent musicians, they put their hearts into the music they create.

The music was wonderful and held my attention from the first note to the last with their blend of folk-rock done well. But for my usual variety of excuses I could have well ended up dancing for most of the songs. I might have been the only one who would have that night, but it would have been worth it (even if my efforts earned the mirth of those around me). But, back to the music. The sound ranged from soft melodic lines to a harder, more driven sound. There were a few songs, such as "Beloved," that covered the range on their own. Whichever way they go, they do it well.

They started off on a strong note with "Oh No!" which they followed up with "Confessions of a Dishonest Fisherman." There is a darker edge to the second song, an edge that would show up several times throughout the evening. "Beloved" shows off some of their range as they slide from one end of the musical spectrum to the other. As for "Mustard Fields," it is hard not to enjoy slightly off kilter songs, especially when they are performed so well.

A back-to-back medley began with the instrumental "La Guillotine," followed by "Stranger Things" and ending with "Maritime Sun." The transitions between the songs was incredibly smooth. That grouping was shortly followed by "Call Us Cowards," which shows the strengths of the group's ability to blend lyrics into the layered texture of the music.

"Bruizes Cascade" is simply a beautiful song. "Go!" is a fast-paced piece that gets you going with the first note, while "When it Gets Cold" is a darker piece that drifts up and down your spine. "The Bathroom Floor" is an absolute blast, a well-written drinking song that ended the show on a perfect note.

At the end of the night I was left well satisfied with the performance. More than that, I felt they did a wonderful job and I was well entertained by the evening. The Mailman's Children is a group I would love to hear live again, especially in a small setting like the the Pyramid. Who knows, I might even dance next time.

[ by Paul de Bruijn ]
Rambles: 6 April 2002