First things first. I am by no means a “professional” music reviewer. In fact, I’ve probably never written an actual review of any music I’ve ever listened to. That being said, I did feel compelled to put my thoughts on this album down. They are in no way going to be an in-depth, track by track, comprehensive review. Anyway, here goes. . .

Disclaimer: The Civil Wars did not pay me, bribe me or give me any free merchandise for writing this review. Though, they did provide a fantastic album of music which inspired this review.

There’s a lot of music in the world today. I feel like I’ve heard most of it (I listen to music anywhere from 4-6 hours per day). Most of it wears thin quickly; usually in one or two listens. It’s generally over produced with muddied sound, unbalanced, and truly emotionless.

(I’m no sound engineer or professional audiophile. But I know what I like and what I don’t.)

The Civil Wars - Barton Hollow

Barton Hollow is none of those.

It’s Beauty in Simplicity.

Joy Williams and John Paul White. Their voices, the guitar of JP and the occasional piano of Joy. . . and it’s all mixed fantastically. There’s nothing in the background to distract you from the lyrics or the emotion of their voices.

The instruments are mixed to compliment the vocals. The emotion tells the story almost better than the lyrics. You would think Joy and JP have a storied past together, the chemistry is that strong.

Unlike most albums that have 1 or 2 standout tracks and mediocre filler, this album is a complete experience, beginning to end. Everything just fits and it works beautifully.

Beauty in Simplicity.

If you haven’t bought this album yet, you really should. You won’t be disappointed.

My sincerest apologies to The Civil Wars for this scattered and unprofessional review. An album this good deserves a better crafted review.