The Kennedys - Half A Million Miles (2005)

Even after ten years, over a thousand gigs and 500,000 miles of touring as a married, music-making couple, singer-guitarists Pete and Maura Kennedy haven`t killed each other. The duo savors each instant in life and in each other`s company, and it shows in their music. The Kennedys have been charming audiences and critics for a decade with their exuberant mixture of folk, rock, country, pop and secular gospel, a philosophical depth in their lyrics, and joyful, kinetic performances and recordings.

"Half a Million Miles," The Kennedys 8th CD, presents ten sparkling roots-pop originals, plus two complementary covers, infused with their "live in the moment" outlook. The Kennedys constant touring, coupled with the influence of such writers as Joseph Campbell, Aldous Huxley, and Eckhart Tolle, has taught them about "the eternal now." With eyes wide open, they discover wisdom and musical inspiration everywhere. A mysterious greeting at their local East Village sushi bar is transformed into the buoyant "Namaste" (translation: "The divine in me recognizes the divine in you"). A neighborhood merchant becomes "9th Street Billy, the guru of East Side soul" in a lilting bossa nova. "Live" and "Listen" are respectively forceful and delicate reminders to stop and smell the roses.

While the original songs on "Half a Million Miles" all bear references to the Buddhist outlook of openness and enlightenment, Pete calls the two cover versions Richard Thompsons wrenching "How Will I Ever Be Simple Again?" and Bob Dylans "Chimes of Freedom" "political, peacenik songs," that pay attention to current events.

Mauras lead vocals are sweet and often girlishly playful while displaying a plaintive edge of experience, and Petes harmonies add a second coating of melodic delight. And the guitars! While Maura provides rhythm guitar grooves, Pete lays down layers of chiming acoustic and 12-string leads (and all other instruments on the CD).

Ear candy and brain food are an irresistible combination on "Half a Million Miles," where The Everly Brothers meet Emerson, The Byrds meets Buddha, and everyone gets along just fine. Join The Kennedys in their celebration of life on this CD, in their next half million miles of performances and airing the music they love on their "Dharma Café" show on Sirius Satellite Radio.