Drawing Down the Moon (Bonus Track Version)

Azure Ray’s first album in seven years sounds as if no time has elapsed. Orenda Fink and Maria Taylor harmonize like common sense. The two have spent the ensuing years recording impressive solo albums but are always so soothing when put together. “Larraine” is a stunner, based on dark dooming strings and a funereal piano with Fink and Taylor pulling together on a melody that keeps finding new territory until it finally fades. “On and On Again” comes across like an early-‘70s singer-songwriter tune with country influences. “Make Your Heart” is another wide-screen love song hitched to a pounding backbeat and backing vocals that twist in the eerie wind. Their vocals outlast the music to “Silver Sorrow.” “Signs In the Leaves” begins as a quiet folk tune and slowly adds harmonies and piano. “Walking In Circles” ends things on a beautifully crafted note. These are gorgeous tunes that play with great strength despite their gentle surfaces.