Morlove

British Columbia-based duo Morlove create intricate, acoustic folk songs, but on All of My Lakes Lay Frozen Over, their sound is touched by engaging, unexpected pop nuances as well. Vocalists and multi-instrumentalists Emily Brown and Corwin Fox complement each other well, brushing gently against each other as writers and tastefully restrained singers. Along with near-lullabies like the title track, there are neatly arranged tunes like "Falcon" and "Relative Chemistries," which are propelled by interesting rhythms, strings and floating horns. The lyricism is evocative yet mysterious, presented in high-range voices that are practically angelic. There are jazz and post-rock leanings within things like "Old Perfume," and "When You Come Down" has the frontier shuffle of Calexico coursing through it. All told, there's a unique depth to Morlove's debut record, which sidles up to the edge of the unknown abyss, with its palm safely grasping the handrail.