The Greencards,
Viridian

Label: Dualtone
Year: 2007

(4 out of 5)

Many locals mourned when the Greencards left Austin in 2005. The trio wanted to take its shot at the big-time and felt that Nashville had the right people to make that happen. Now two years later, the beautiful Viridian vindicates their decision. With help from producer Doug Lancio, the Greencards have made a beautiful album that showcases each individual's talents as well as their growth together as a group. Carol Young shines on the sensuous "Here You Are" and the pensive "River of Sand." Kym Warner and Eamon McLoughlin also take strong turns as vocal lead on the groove-driven "Who Knows" and the playful "When I Was in Love with You," respectively. But it's Young's gorgeous vocals combined with Warner's mandolin and McLoughlin's strings that provide the band's signature sound. And what a sound it is — alternately traditional and modern, mischievous and strait-laced. The Greencards have come a long way since forming in 2003. With a little more time in Music City — and a few more potential crossovers like "I Don't Want to Lose You" — they just might find themselves expanding beyond Americana to the mainstream of American music.

Listen: "Here You Are," "Who Knows," "When I Was In Love with You," "I Don't Want to Lose You"

Buy: Lone Star Music, Amazon, iTunes

March 28, 2007