Album Review: Caitlin Harnett - The River Runs North

On her long-awaited debut album Caitlin Harnett finds a lush and harmonious middle ground between folk and country music. There’s a lightness to her music and voice that recalls the carefree sound that came out of Laurel Canyon in the 1970s, Joni Mitchell an obvious touchstone. Strings, harmonica, organ and horns enhance the songs without overshadowing the sensitivity of Harnett’s writing as she sings of negotiating the joys and pitfalls of love and desire. Even through its melancholic moments there’s a youthful optimism on this accomplished debut that warms the soul and lifts the spirit.