The Webb Sisters
Album: When Will You Come Home
Label: Proper
Tracks: 5
Website: http://www.thewebbsisters.com

The Webb Sisters are Charley and Hattie, a pair of siblings who write and perform their own songs. Nothing unusual in that, you may observe. What is unusual about The Webb Sisters is that they have another job. That job is providing heavenly backing vocals for one of the greatest singer-songwriters ever, Leonard Cohen. Charley and Hattie have been touring with the Great Man since 2008 and Leonard refers to them as "the sublime Webb Sisters", and who would argue with him? I certainly wouldn't on the strength of this lovely EP, which was produced by Peter Asher [who needs no introduction from me].

As well as touring with Leonard, the Sisters are pursuing their own career, having released three albums and a number of EP's and singles. This latest EP was recorded in Los Angeles in July 2012 and features two originals by Charley and Hattie as well as two covers [one of which also appears as a bonus track in an orchestrated version].

From the opening notes of "Missing Person" [written by the Sisters and Dan Wilson], it is clear that this is something special. The harmonies are indeed "sublime" and the song is will resonate with anyone who has lost someone " You're my missing person, when will you come home?".The other original ["It May Be Spring But I Still Need A Coat"] is equally excellent, a gorgeous confection of heavenly harmonies and acoustic instruments [mandolin, guitar and double bass, not forgetting piano by Badfinger 's Jeff Alan Ross].

As for the covers, the first is a sparse, elegant folk version of the Elvis hit, "Always On My Mind", which features more gorgeous harmonies together with Hattie's evocative harp.

The other cover is by the Sisters' employer, Leonard Cohen. This is, typically, a great song, full of biblical imagery. There are two versions, one orchestrated and the other with harp and organ backing. I can't make up my mind as to which I prefer, as they are both equally beautiful.

If you have not heard The Webb Sisters before, this EP would be an excellent place to start. After that, you'll be hooked.

Peter Cowley