If you're looking for a "cute little CD to lull you to sleep", move along, there's nothing for you here. From the first strains of the title track, the tension and promise are palpable. The Larson Sisters have worked hard to craft seven strong songs in their freshman release. With the help of great production by Ric Hordinski, Stephanie and Rachael captivate with familial harmonies, captivating lyrics and mature melodies. Let's hope these talented ladies have much more to say.

"housewives and butcher knives" (first, i love that title) is an excellent first effort by the larson sisters. it nailed me on the first listen. which, in all honesty, few records do. first, there are the songs, this is a very well written and consistant record, very strong lyrically, each song as good as the one before, or after. so much so that it's hard for me to choose a "favorite track, that's a very welcome problem. there is not a weak track on this record. it's hard to believe that this is their first record. next, the vocals. simply, the harmonies between stephanie and rachel are stunning. brilliant. i honestly can't remember the last time i have such strong two-part harmonies, their voices blend together perfectly. if you are a fan of female and/or harmony vocals, this record will be a wecome find. and the production, "the larson sisters" lyric's and vocals coupled with the brilliant, yet subtle hand of ric hordinski in the control booth is a perfect match. add ric's masterful guitar work, josh seurkamp's amazing drum work and you get this, one damn fine record. i have recommended and played "housewives and butcher knives" to several friends, every one has been blown away by it. and if you don't believe me...just listen for yourself.

"Housewives and Butcher Knives," by sisters Rachael and Stephanie Larson, is a wonderful little cd. Strong songwriting and beautiful harmonies combine with Ric Hordinski's deft production to bring the listener along a dark, emotional journey where we feel the sadness of life, yet are reassured that there are good people to help us live through it. The melancholy title track features striking counterpoint between the vocal and accompaniment and conjures up nostalgic memories of Harrod and Funck’s self titled album, another Hordinski project (and one of my personal favorites). The comforting and understated “Lay Your Burden Down” must make Mindy Smith wish she had sister with whom to harmonize. Stephanie’s sultry alto is perhaps its most vulnerable on “Turn Around,” as her pleas for a new beginning are soothed by her sister’s striking harmonies. “Stay” is stripped-down bliss with only a finger-picked guitar and the gentle lilt of the vocals. Rachael gets her chance to shine on “Enough” as she steps to the front with a song that would fit nicely on the “Reality Bites” soundtrack. “Hole in Your Heart” has a great retro-feel that reminds me of my favorite Sarah Harmer songs. The album ends strong with “Long Road Home,” my favorite song of the bunch. Given the full-band treatment, the shimmering electric guitars wonderfully complement the imagery of the lyric. This is truly a special album and well worth a listen. Keep it up, ladies!