Pierce by Pierce…

Having built up a legacy in the alt-folk scene since early 2000, The Pierces’ lack of success was inversely proportional to their obvious talent and appeal.

Their skewed take on the form showed some real invention, especially on their third record, Thirteen Tales of Love and Revenge, and it’s lead single, Boring.

Having been on the verge of giving it all up, their fourth album recently hit the streets. Having the backing of Coldplay’s Guy Berryman as co-producer, alongside Rik Simpson, who has previously been at the mixing desk for Jay-Z, Kasabian and PJ Harvey, The Pierces look set to achieve the breakout success their delicate, melodic tunes deserve.

Raised on Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon, Allison and Catherine Pierce have a strong melodic sense that weaves through all of the tracks on You & I.

There are echoes of Aimee Mann’s band, Til Tuesday, and The Byrds in the arrangements and harmonies that wrap you up and hold you entranced as you listen.

It’s not often that I put an album on repeat on my generic mp3 player of choice, but I did, and before I knew it, I’d listened to You & I straight through twice.

When things take on a slower tempo, on tracks like The Good Samaritan, The Pierces’ Alabama roots come through, their southern drawl seeps through the harmonies and give the sound a sun-bleached Americana feel.

Elsewhere, the music resembles a late 60s Atlantic Records sound, like the best moments of Dusty In Memphis, and displays a fine affinity with and understanding of 70s American rock, especially Rumours-era Fleetwood Mac.

There’s clearly a powerful depth of musical heritage at work here, and The Pierces don’t hesitate to let their influences inform their direction in every song, light and shade in every twist and turn.

You & I is shot through with delicious melodies and laser-sharp harmonies that have you hooked. This is where The Pierces take off.

Here they are, singing the one-two-three song 😉