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The Laws / Press

"Though spare, the Laws’ sound is rich--rich sonically by dint of smart arrangements that fill out the soundscape just so behind the couples’ striking vocals, with no solo being unwarranted or saying more than it needs to say; rich lyrically, by virtue of literate, heartfelt sentiments conveying their stories of love, of leaving, of bonding around the passion with a purpose a listener cannot ignore; and most certainly rich in the human, animated sound of their voices bringing their narratives to life."

"Their songwriting is strong (all but one of the songs is credited as co-written by John and Michele), their harmonies are exquisite, and their arrangements, which draw on folk, country and bluegrass influences, and are built on John’s guitar and Michele’s bass, are very tasteful. The only sideman is producer J.P. Cormier who variously adds keyboards, percussion, guitar, banjo and mandolin. The trio – John, Michele and J.P. – are back in full bluegrass mode on “Beer Mountain Rag,” the album’s lone instrumental."

"The couple’s classic folk sound, highlighted by their euphonic vocal harmonies, will be a sonic balm to anyone who longs for a return to simpler, more direct music making."

SS - Vintage Guitar Magazine

"It is possible to define country music itself by stripping away the production and performing styles du jour, and looking at what lies beneath. The Laws offer that kind of stripped down approach to country, and they show why that’s all you need. So, take a well written love song, (check), add a wonderfully emotive female singer who doesn’t need to overdo it, (check), and then you don’t need much more than an acoustic guitar and maybe a bass part. The second guitar playing the beautiful Spanish guitar solos on Walking Away is a delightful bonus. Some of the songs here are somewhat more arranged, but the music is still made with a light touch, and the songs don’t need any more help. John Law takes the lead vocals on some of the songs; he has a fine voice as well, but I enjoyed Michele Law’s voice more. Overall, this is what country music should sound like. You shouldn’t have to do more than this to make it work."

"Among the slow influx of real-life-couple duos in country music—Joey+Rory, Steel Magnolia, Thompson Square—the Canada-based duo The Laws easily distinguishes itself, borrowing more from folk and Americana styles than from modern country. Comprised of John Law and wife Michele, the couple revels in a spirited and at times bluegrass-influenced sound. The title track is a soul-flavored mid-tempo rocker bolstered by John’s hearty vocals. Michele’s voice, in contrast, is soft and serene, often recalling Rhonda Vincent on tunes such as “Wherefore and Why.” Together their voices evoke a silk-and-sandpaper quality and their superb harmonies at times elicits those of The Everly Brothers."

Jessica Phillips - Country Weekly

“While clearly having some bluegrass influences, The Laws’ “Try Love” is predominately an inspired acoustic folk-grass collection of well-written originals that show why this harmonious duo is building a legion of fans. Whether you’re looking for a good recipe or a tasty new song, “Try Love” just might be the answer." ”

““It is rare that you receive a CD and it never leaves your player. I wore out two copies of Bob Dylan’s first album. Now I am starting to do the same thing with “The Laws, Try Love”. As one of the most well known House Concert presenters in the Toronto Ontario area, you can imagine how much “talent” I have been able to present. “The Laws” with “Try Love” have set a new bar! Produced by J.D. Cormier who added great melodic banjo and other instruments to the tunes, John and Michele’s harmony’s have never been closer. I have always thought “The Laws” were the best songwriters currently in Canada. A great CD!!! Pick up a copy of “Try Love”, turn the lights down and “Try some Yourself” or better yet book “The Laws” at your venue or a House Concert."”

“The Laws sign an endorsement deal with Tanglewood Guitars!”

Tanglewood Guitars

"The Laws put on the Freewheelin' Concert of the year! The audience was begging for more even after 2 encores! What a musical treat to hear such fine harmonies, great pickin' and husband and wife banter that leaves you smiling, laughing, toe-tapping from beginning to end. These guys are not to be missed! One of Canada's Top Acts for sure!!!

Jim Marino - Freewheeling Folk Show, Smokin Bluegrass Show 93.3 CFMU Hamilton On.

"The Laws are a delight- run, don’t walk to their show, the next time they’re in your town."

Sean Pennylegion, Entertainment Committee, - Haliburton County Folk Society, Haliburton, Ontario

" With inspired lyrics and exquisite harmonies, they engaged our audience like we've never seen before. It's crystal clear after a few bars that John and Michele were born to sing together. We are already being asked when we're having them back ... tomorrow if we could! "

George & Melina Scott - Songwriters Showcase House Concert Series, Tottenham, On.

"The Canadian duo, The Laws, invaded Flint last Friday and conquered the hearts of every folk music fan there. An evening of great original music and stories ended all too soon, with folks saying "Man, you have to have them back!"

Ron Woods - Flint Folk Music Society

““… alternatively wistful and playful songs… collection of acoustic gems” ”

Chris Neal - Nashville Scene (Critics Pick)

"The Laws are one of the strongest concert acts in Canada. Flawless harmonies, sensational musicianship and exceptional audience rapport are all hallmarks of their live performances. Their songwriting skills are second to none."

Bob Bale - Affinity Concerts, Sudbury, Ontario

"... recalls The Everly Brothers in their prime. Yes, the harmonies really are that good."

Robert Oermann - Music Row Magazine

““John and Michele Law's songs seem to be the lost essence of country music which has now become so commercial and formulaic sounding.””

Randy Bachman