PEGGY SUE play the Garrison Sunday (November 13). See listing. Rating: NNNN
Peggy Sue began as an acoustic folk trio under the mega-shadow of fellow Brits Mumford & Sons and Laura Marling. By plugging in for their second album, they’ve achieved something much deeper and more powerful than their first.
The group has always had a more sinister edge than their moniker suggests, and it’s now in the foreground. Katy Klaw and Rosa Rex’s rich, expressive vocals play beautifully against the distorted guitars and propulsive drum work.
It’s hard to avoid comparisons to the raw 90s angst of PJ Harvey, especially since long-time Harvey collaborator John Parrish produced it. But there are also hints of newer acts like Wye Oak and Warpaint, groups unafraid to mix dreamy melodies with occasionally abrasive guitars.
Acrobats drags a bit near the end, but there’s no denying that it’s a huge leap forward.
Top track: Cut My Teeth
