Review
'Tides of a Teardrop' is a mesmerizing journey through a realm of emotion and melody, crafted by the enchanting duo Watchhouse (formerly Mandolin Orange). Released in 2019, this album is a magical tapestry woven with threads of folk, country, and bluegrass, creating a sound that's both familiar and refreshingly unique.
From the opening notes of 'Golden Embers' to the final strains of 'Time We Made Time', listeners are transported to a world where music speaks the language of the heart. The album's themes of love, loss, and hope are like ancient spells, casting their power through songs such as 'Mother Deer' and 'Suspended in Heaven'. These tracks, with their haunting harmonies and poetic lyrics, feel like whispers from another realm, connecting the earthly and the eternal.
Watchhouse's musical alchemy shines bright in tracks like 'The Wolves' and 'Into the Sun', where they masterfully blend elements of alt-country and pure folk. The result is a sonic potion that's both comforting and invigorating, inviting listeners to embark on a quest of self-reflection and appreciation for life's simple yet profound moments. 'Tides of a Teardrop' is truly a magical artifact, capable of slowing time and opening hearts to the beauty that surrounds us. - Thalia
Artist Bio
Watchhouse is an Americana and folk duo from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, comprised of Andrew Marlin and Emily Frantz, who began making music together in 2009 under the name Mandolin Orange. Known for their warm harmonies and narrative songwriting, they got their start playing small local venues before landing a deal with Yep Roc Records in 2013. Their 2019 rebrand as Watchhouse signaled a broader, more exploratory sound, often featuring a full band and studio collaborators. Over the years, they’ve steadily moved from backyard sets to major stages like Austin City Limits, all while balancing parenthood and incorporating fresh influences into their music. Fans of Gregory Alan Isakov, The Avett Brothers, and Iron & Wine will find familiar ground in Watchhouse’s rich blend of roots, folk, and Americana.