Album Notes

This first CD from this new duo is a winner. It’s rare to find first efforts so well done. I marvel at the blending of not just their voices and instruments, but their obvious personal connection which adds a delightful robustness and maturity that is truly wonderful. In their case, the sum is greater than the parts. I look forward to much more music from these two fine musicians. - NW HOOT review

Artists’ statement: Duet singing is a lot like life – it’s important to engage your whole self, make sure you are in tune, and leave enough time and space for anything that might happen unexpectedly. In our case, we happened unexpectedly in 2008, meeting and discovering a shared passion for music in the folk tradition. We hope you enjoy the songs chosen for this first CD. We might be covering a John Prine song, digging into traditional or composed mountain music, sharing our own original tunes, or interpreting a contemporary folksong in our own style. Each one tells a story, inspires good harmonies, and touches us—in the heart, in the funny bone, or in the memory of who we are and where we came from.

More details about Hank and Claire: Pacific Northwest duo Hank Payne and Claire Favro offer close harmonies and vibrant intensity in their acoustic renditions of a wide range of songs. Their combined repertoire includes original songs, traditional folk, and tunes from contemporary singer/songwriters. Each has a long and varied musical background, with involvement in professional gigs and community music-making since the coffee house days of the 1960’s.

Hank and Claire met in 2008 while training to become certified music practitioners. They share a dedication to perpetuating the tradition of live music, recognizing its powerful potential for healing and nurturing the human spirit. An evening of their musical collaboration is an evening with everything: joy, whimsy, melancholy, and just plain fun.

Hank and Claire have entered the folk scene with a splash, pleasing audiences with their songwriting and duet-singing. Their set lists are crafted to impact each audience in a way that will touch hearts, build community, and send people out into the world refreshed and renewed. More at their website www.hanknclaire.com.

Duet singing at its finest.