Last Transit’s first CD release, Treasure Chest, is a radiant gem of superb acoustic music. Marke Foxworthy (guitar, banjo, dobro, and vocals) and Beth Mosko (fiddle, mandolin, and vocals) are Last Transit and, along with solid bass and mandolin support from Lisa Burns and Richard Burkett respectively, they have put together an outstanding first CD effort. Showcasing 11 originals out of 14 cuts, the CD glows with warmth, talent, and beautifully written, arranged, and performed acoustic music. Fiddle and banjo are the primary leads, sometimes trading leads, sometimes playing solo, and sometimes playing wonderfully woven melodies in unison. If you like acoustic music anchored in tradition but with a flair for the modern you will definitely like this CD. If you are looking for electric guitar and drums, this is not for you.
The CD starts with a mood setting fiddle and bass drone behind banjo lead on a Marke Foxworthy original titled “Whistling in the Dark,” which presents a beautiful and complex chord progression in a minor key setting. In fact, complex chord progressions sophisticated rhythmic patterns, and tight arrangements are what set this CD apart. The style and music is traditional to the heart, to be sure, but the skills of Marke and Beth in successfully bringing traditional music to more than the standard three-chord progression, spiced with minor keys, some Irish flair, and judicious use of the darker modal sound, elevate this CD to a special place.
Marke and Beth each also present an original vocal tune. In Beth’s case it is the upbeat “Caleb’s Bluff,” showcasing her songwriting skills as well as her wonderfully pure soprano voice. Marke offers his “Highway Angel,” a moody groove tune telling a sad story with great vocals and instrumentation.
Among my favorite – it’s hard to choose as there is not a bad tune on the CD – is Beth’s original “Franklin’s Waltz,” which is beautifully constructed and played on the fiddle. A stand out is Marke’s “My Way Home,” a first class instrumental piece showcasing his writing and arranging skills as well as his considerable banjo talents. This tune has the kind of melody you find yourself humming on the way home. Let’s hope we hear more from this talented duo.
Marke, Beth and Last Transit are hosting a CD release party at Acoustic Expressions, 2852 University Avenue in North Park, Monday, May 22, at 7:30 p.m. The public is invited to come and meet Marke and Beth and hear them live. Admission is free.
San Diego Troubadour, May 2006
