Kelly Joe Phelps and Corinne West
Corinne West and Kelly Joe Phelps have traveled the same roads for years — paths deeply rutted by countless musical gypsies past — but they rarely met. In late 2009, their musical avenues meshed when Phelps performed alongside West in a series of CD release shows for her most recent album The Promise. During these shows it became apparent that each had found a true musical partner. The next path to follow: Become one as a duo.
Their partnership, built on the foundation of mutual respect and admiration of each other and their craft, led to the 26-minute, six-song EP Magnetic Skyline, recorded live-off-the-floor at Skywalker Sound (the sound division of George Lucas’ Skywalker Ranch) in Novato, Calif. The songs on Magnetic Skyline, previously released on two of West’s earlier albums — the critically acclaimed debut Bound for the Living (2004) and The Promise (2009) — are innovative again with two destined-to-be-together voices soaring on the wings of their beautifully intricate but seeming effortless acoustic guitar work.
Coupled with her sensuously soulful voice, West’s insightful and provocative songwriting is an airy, free-flying vehicle, perfect for Phelps’ innovative and artistic guitar skills. A brilliant improviser, Phelps is known for his remarkable ability to reinvent a song — blending multiple influences with his own voice — every time he plays.
This article was originally published in Eugene Weekly, July 15, 2010
Our Kind Of Music 