4 Ever On

Since their debut in 1995, Sons of the Never Wrong have built a sturdy folk-pop sound similar in scope to Small Potatoes. All three members — guitarist/keyboardist Bruce Roper, mandolinist/banjoist Deborah Maris Lader, and guitarist Sue Demel — write and sing. The group's instrumental dexterity leads to multiple variations within the folk idiom, from Celtic-flavored songs like "Looks Like Illinois" to the social protest of "Way to Go." Sons of the Never Wrong's calling card, however, is their ability, individually and in multiple combinations, as vocalists. Lader delivers a quiet, sensitive vocal on "Mobile," while Roper sings lead on the catchy "Everybody's Gotta" with lots of nice harmony backup from his partners. A bare piano and bass opens "Witness," a calm piece that builds like a hymn as the three singers combine their voices without losing their individual identities. All of these characteristics, along with attractive melodies, make Four Ever On easy on the ears. The group seems less successful, however, lyrically. The social criticism in "Way to Go" — that wealthy people have an easier start in life than the poor — is a bit obvious, while the metaphor in "Toast" is over-extended. Fans of the group's previous albums, though, will not be surprised or bothered by this. They'll find the same great singing and musicianship they've come to expect from Sons of the Never Wrong. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., Rovi