They have an organic elegant sound on their self-titled indie debut. Both play acoustic guitar, both are blessed with voices rich in tenor and intelligence, and for “Kumi” they have crafted ten songs of unusual depth and passion.
Their eclectic opener “No Regrets” quickly brought Jimmy Needham to my mind, with its bouncy rhythms, fresh phrasing, and compelling lyrical challenge. Like Needham, the Wulfing sisters let their strong sense of calling flavor their sound openly. Their music speaks of holiness (“Garbage In”), heartfelt worship (“Yahweh”), and obedience “(Obsessed”). But they manage to do an incredible amount of leading/influencing while sounding completely fresh and creative. The soaring melody line of “Dreams” is so purely gorgeous that its deep adoration pierces your own heart; you feel your own knees wanting to bend. It’s impossible to listen to the straightforward passion of ballad “Yahweh” without turning heavenward.
But the sisters know how to have fun too. Check out the jazz-tinged vocals of the happy-feet tune “Slow Down,” its old-school rock changes nicely bouncing beneath their sparkling vocal inter-play. When it’s time to rock hard, they’re right there, with “Proud Man” and you’ll like the slightly bluesy feel to the upbeat “Sweet.” Kumi is great with a fuller sound as well, joined on the lovely “I’ll Wait” by a mournful cello, electric guitars and drums. Very Norah Jones.
“Obsessed” is challenging both melodically and spiritually, calling us out of our glorious self-obsession to the humility of worship, a real word of wisdom couched in lush vocal arrangements. “Kumi” closes gently, the sisters’ pure vocals celebrating God’s love over simple acoustic guitars, reminiscent of the ardor of Song of Solomon. You will find “Kumi” to be artful, fresh, and moving. Amaze your friends; be the first on your block to discover the magic of Kumi.
