By Joe Ross
A “washover fan” is a term used by scientists for those sandy landforms that wash in over an island or spit of land during a storm. While one member of this Washington-based acoustic Americana quartet was studying geology, the band adopted its moniker. It’s a good initial indication of their earthy approach to music.
That Habit Suits You features an appealing mix of organic and expressive contemporary folk. Together since 2009, The Washover Fans include Gillian Tart (guitar), David Smith (guitar, mandolin, percussion), Colin Isler (guitar, cello, harmonica), and Seth Hayden (lead guitar, mandolin, banjo). All but Hayden contribute vocals. Their musical influences stem from each member’s life and upbringing in New England, Washington, North Carolina and Georgia.
Despite the fact that their unpretentious music is all original, they have a keen ability to take us back to the roots, drawn from old-timey front porch sounds as well as folk-rock and alt-country. The Washover Fans’ slower songs strive for evocative moods with enticing vocals and instrumental accompaniment. Songs like “Light Sweet Crude,” “The Last Thing” and “A Ways” address fundamental visions of life from struggle to survival, love to heartbreak and perseverance to commitment. Gillian Tart’s journey in “Santa Fe” takes her from Alaska to Seattle to the desert, and finally to New Mexico.
I was also pleased to hear them occasionally pick up the pace with songs like “Soldier” and “Last Place to Go.” “Honeys” has a unique arrangement and catchy hook. While I enjoyed the fills of cello, harmonica, mandolin, banjo and lead guitar, I was also left wishing for a fiddle in the mix. Despite these minor pitfalls, it’s still an auspicious debut for this Puget Sound area band. They demonstrate a voice and sensibility beyond their years, and they seem ready for more than open mic showcases, taverns, cafes and coffeehouses. Count me as a Washover Fans fan.