Melissa Carper & Theo Lawrence (album release)

Some twangs just naturally slide together like they were meant for each other, and Melissa Carper’s crooked country barb and Theo Lawrence’s French-bred, Western swing croon make an unlikely but perfect fit. The duo’s album of original duets, Havin’ a Talk, strikes a timeless chord, accented by Carper’s winking wit and Lawrence’s soulful sincerity that play off of each other in effortless harmony. The two local songwriters combine for a classic sound that feels nonetheless refreshed and modern, whether lilting tender or playfully sparring. 04 Center may need to remove some chairs to accommodate the inevitable dancing. – Doug Freeman