Kendl Winter
Apple Core (K)
By Erin Lyndal Martin
Published: October 17th, 2010 | 7:00am
Apple Core is an album borne of mythology. The Arkansas-born Winter recorded it on a boat in the Puget Sound and a house in Olympia, WA, and she sold it herself on Etsy.com with original, hand-painted covers. The DIY spirit is alive and well on the album, which features Winter at the helm of banjos, guitars, and loop pedals.
Unfortunately, the record doesn't quite live up to its own story. While she has a lovely voice akin to that of fellow folkster Kris Delmhorst, there’s just nothing distinctive about it. The same goes for her music, which is capable and quality, but nothing in that opens new roads. While Winter can rock the banjo, the Be Good Tanyas use the same instrument to better results, and though the lyrics serve the music well, they aren't strong enough to redeem Apple Core as a whole.
There are no clunkers on the album yet few songs stand out. "Too Much Sugar in My Bellyache" is catchy and full of banjo riffs that you can't help but love, while "Dr. Tiller" narrates the tragic shooting of the late physician with the assertion that "You're the last going down for the cause." "Cotton Skies" kicks off with layered harmonies and finger-snaps that introduce an infectious folk-pop number that showcases Winter's voice.
Overall, Apple Core is the perfect example of a DIY album, highlighting Winter's sharp banjo skills and melodious voice, but perhaps she needs some co-contributors to make a record that is truly outstanding.
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Kendl Winter MySpace page
K Records
Issue #44
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