March to May
Primary URL: https://www.marchtomay.com/
For a band that’s been around for only two years and some change, March to May provide a seasoned sounds that’s good listening year round. They’re what the former Civil Wars could have been if they had a little bit more spunk. Forming together “by chance” – or, for music lovers, through fate – Darren Guyaz and Beth Wesche are electric together, thanks to a barrage of soothing harmonies set to stories both relatable and insightful.
The duo’s debut EP The Water’s Edge has a way of feeling like the artists crossed off all possible themes on a notepad while maintaining a freshness and ingenuity to the tracks. Quite impressive really. But, the opening track “The Monk and The Lover” takes you by surprise, separating itself from the rest of the debut. It’s what a couple would hear if on a romantic getaway in Spain or having a moonlit dinner in Italy. It’s a good way for March to May to reel you in – slow and provocative and flirtatious and captivating. Think of it as a lover’s lullaby.
“Falling Down,” however, immediately follows and tears you apart from the inside out. Darren sings lines like “Every single time I looked your way, you glanced away, you glanced away.” It’s a love no longer there. “And I see you walking away, and the rain keeps falling down.” The sorrow keeps comings and the end of the relationship is all too inevitable.
Luckily, the two don’t keep it sullen too long. “Count the Days” use the best of its percussion, though simple, by livening the record up a bit. It’s the most fun you’ll get from The Water’s Edge in terms of tempo, aside from the love letter to the singers’ favorite state in “Georgia,” as the couple’s back-and-forth allow you try out your two-step. Or fingers snapping, whatever you’re in the mood for. The aforementioned “Georgia” proceeds, a nostalgic piece of work that lets you recall hometown memories regardless of state you’re from. “The road is long but I know just where I’m going,” sings Beth with enough emotional heft to make her admiration feel authentic.
But just when you’ve already tossed out the tissues, “Embers” is a reminder that with the fun memories in life also come the heartbreak. “I traced the embers of your face,” evokes Darren as he and Beth deliver a universal tale of a fading love. It’s in the same pocket as “Falling Down” if you’re into the feels.
“Crazy Universe” ends the debut effort with a more grandiose attempt. “Raise your arms to the sky,” the duo sings as if bidding us adieu. It recalls the magic of the movie “Once,” and good God to these deserve such a project.
Marvin Blythe