by Lee Zimmerman
July-August, 2001
With its understated arrangements and shimmering melodies that seem to bubble just below the surface,
the Nourallah Brothers' self-titled debut is an unexpected delight. Although it adheres to pop traditions,
it meanders beyond those boundaries, with a sometimes subversive, left-of-center sensibility. Loose and
laid-back, at times it could pass for a set of demos due to its sparse arrangements and quiet, contemplative
approach. However, at its core, it's a set of songs that resonates with a rich imagery, moody melancholia
and an innate beauty that resonates throughout despite its sometimes-elusive effervescence. "Christmastime"
is sweetly serene, a willowy whisper of a song that's lilting like a lullaby. "I'll Be Around" and "The Last Resort"
convey an ethereal essence that's delicate and dream-like. However, despite these spare settings, the
Brothers do retain ties to traditional trappings; "Who Are We" and "Missing You" have the pretty,
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