Now Take Flight

Smooth harmonies, tight playing, and evocative songwriting make Now Take Flight a standout among contemporary folk releases. The Seattle-based group—recently expanded to a trio with the addition of multi-instrumentalist Michael Connolly—has built a loyal following thanks to its local gigs and tours with The Indigo Girls. Singer/guitarist Joe Stevens brings a unique perspective to his songs about love, freedom, and fulfillment. His warm, slightly melancholy vocals on “These Gray Days,” “To the River," and “Flowers” invite comparisons to James Taylor’s early work. Singer/bassist Ingrid Elizabeth shines on “Kansas” (a playful tune about falling for a coffeehouse barista), “Born Blind” (a haunting number with an old-time country vibe), and a quietly intense cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m on Fire.” At times, Coyote Grace invokes '30s-style string bands. At others, it ventures into progressive bluegrass realms, most evident on the expansive title tune, a spacy anthem of empowerment. Through it all, the trio projects a natural musical chemistry that’s impossible to fake. This is an understated gem of an album, one that grows in charm with each listen.