Yes, we all know he showed his acoustic ability with All Time Quarterback a few years ago, and yeah, it was all right. The CD that was reissued by Barsuk proved that Gibbard can hold his own by himself.
What this split proves is that the major songwriting force behind Death Cab For Cutie and The Postal Service is capable of great things with just an acoustic guitar and a simple chord progression. His songs (all 3 originals) are vibrant and full of life and emotion. "You Remind Me Of Home" could very well be Post Parlo's theme for the HOME series. It's a vivid ride through suburbia pointing out the summits and valleys of a small town. The song is double tracked vocally which gives it that extra kick that even further showcases Gibbard's strength and presence as a vocalist (a 'flaw' that has been pointed out by nay-sayers). "Carolina" is simply marvelous. "Farmer Chords" is an amazing piece of songwriting that is as happy as it is listless. The song begs you to hum along, and you will. Gibbard's cover of Kenny's "Choir Vandals" is superb.
Though some reviewers bash Andrew Kenny's soft-spoken, quiet tunes, they have some redeeming qualities. If you are not a fan of American Analong Set or you have never heard them before, this is no place to start. If that is the case get "Promise Of Love", I assure you, you will enjoy it more than these three songs. Although "Secrets Of The Heart" and "Church Mouse" are not Kenny's best material, he is in top form on "Hometown Fantasy" which is equally fitting as a mission statement for the HOME series, in a much more somber way. Kenny delivers an honest, straightforward composition with a simple refrain that is as hum-able as "Farmer Chords". Kenny's cover of Gibbard's "Line Of Best Fit" is excellent. He does little to alter the chord progression or shape of the song, but he ultimately pulls it off better than most anyone could have (save, perhaps Gibbard himself) on an unaccompanioned acoustic guitar.
Yes, I would agree that there is nothing technically amazing on these eight songs, but, if you want technicality, go listen to Rush. You aren't considering purchasing an acoustic Ben Gibbard/Andrew Kenny split for its technicality, you want it because it showcases both songwriters (particularly Gibbard) and proves that the best songwriters can create great songs with just a melody and a six string.
A MUST for any real Death Cab or AmAnSet fan.
Buy the Bright Eyes/Britt Daniel HOME split as well. Support Post Parlo, they are a great little label.