Family Gold Records

***1/2

New Hampshire sibling duo of Josi and Lily Lion’s debut full-length album is a roots celebration that uplifts with their stunning harmonies and individualistic instrumental skills. They share lead vocals, though I get the impression that guitarist Lilly (18) takes most of the leads with fiddle player Josi (21) providing the exquisite harmonies. They are joined by producer James Prendergast on guitar and mandolin and Byron House on bass. Recalling the likes of the Secret Sisters, the High Women and the Wailin’ Jennys, and through their effortless chemistry, the sisters don’t rely on beguiling melodies alone. Both are astute players, and when they intertwine their skills the full extent of their dexterity becomes obvious. The pair weave their way around one another with an assurance, capability, and complexity that belies their youthfulness. In today’s world, obsessed as we are with living in the moment, the sisters’ recognition of the importance of the roots that form the basis of who they are is welcome. With inventive fiddle and finesse, guitar picking and heavenly harmonies, they seem to have all the essential ingredients when it comes to excelling at both balladry and up-tempo tunes. 

THE LION’S SHARE feels like a storybook of the things that young adults go through; reflections that mirror the harsh realities of adolescence. They sing about being heartbroken and disoriented, but also about the unalloyed joys of first love and being on the road in search of something new. The kinship and hope on this record are landmarks themselves. The warmth, beauty, and good humour that runs through these recordings assures that this album is never a downer. Whether it’s the Spanish-style guitar and gypsy fiddle on A Friend Of Giovani or the assured guitarwork that underscores If I Could (I Would), both are great displays of the girls’ musicianship. They turn the typical love story on its head by focusing on love’s limits and finding meaning there in the former and take a unique approach with the tough and tenacious warning to A Friend Of Giovani; with tongue firmly in cheek. 

The Sun Was Sending Me Home moves ponderously and beautifully amid viscous tone-washes and enveloping sonic spaces. This pause to take a look at young love and life going on all around, hits an emotional resonator. The ebullient Running Out Of Runway is a genuine standout, as is Crazy Lazy Days, a sway of a stroll which boasts a chorus that lingers well after its final notes fade away. The reflective In the Rare Old Times, lives up to the sheer caress implied by its title, a gentle lullaby that’s as soothing as it is satisfying. Naturally, there are also several more upbeat entries demonstrating their absolute reverence for the bluegrass tradition. Their taste for whimsy occasionally gets the better of them (Done With The Daisies is a bridge too far), but the album is largely even keeled. This is an album to get completely lost in, one through which time seemingly stands still. Quality music with a signature mix of thoughtful lyrics and superb musicianship. 

https://thelionsistersmusic.com

November 2026