Cornwell-based musicians Nick Duffy of
the Lilac Time and
Angeline Morrison of the Mighty Sceptres first collaborated when Duffy needed a female singer for an album of cover songs he was putting together (2017's Simulacra II). During the recording process, they learned that they both hailed from Birmingham, and the duo began writing songs about their recollections of growing up there. The resulting album,
The Charcoal Pool, is the debut of Duffy and
Morrison as
We Are Muffy. Taking musical influence from the past, as well, they draw upon the spare, sepia-toned folk of the late '60s while also accommodating the era's sunnier folk-pop and warm harmonies. Their mostly lighthearted remembrances include things like edible treats and "Coloured Pencils," as well as local characters and settings. In addition to the brief interlude "Black Attracts Heat," one of the album's livelier, poppier tunes, "Frosted Candy," features strummed acoustic instruments, drum kit, melodic mallet percussion, and handclaps alongside
Morrison's honeyed lead vocals. While food and eating establishments do receive attention on the album, "Frosted Candy" is actually about happening upon a retail makeup counter ("Carefully lined up on my table/Plots of magic sparkling"). Employing irregular attacks, rotating tuning knobs, and multiple field recordings, the spookier title track explores the mysteries and seduction of the charcoal pool ("Woe betide if you put your head under"). Elsewhere, Duffy takes the lead on the folk drone piece "Coloured Pencils," which explores endless possibilities. Adding to the sense of the everyday are objects like bottle caps and eating utensils, and recordings of birds and rain. Along with its sparse, rustic textures,
The Charcoal Pool charms with its affection tone, playful melodies, and a sensory quality conveyed by colors like ultramarine and vermillion, blackberry-stained fingertips, thin-soled shoes, and gifts of Toblerone. ~ Marcy Donelson