Handsome Family

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The Handsome Family is an American alternative country duo, the couple Brett and Rennie Sparks. Currently they live in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Their songs are written in a strict separation of roles: Brett Sparks, who previously played in several independent bands, writes the music while Rennie, who also is an author, writes the lyrics. Typical for the lyrics is a close connection to the literary genre American Gothic, and Gothic elements you can find in early country and folk songs. The often very odd and drastic lyrics are sung by Brett Sparks in his smooth, calm and warm baritone voice.

The duo are known for their playful bickering and loose, disorganised feel that characterises their live shows. The "Live at the Schuba's Tavern" release contains many short stage dialogues between the pair and the song "Winnebago Skeletons" is performed in a chaotic and imprecise manner. However many fans feel this is part of the charm of their live performances.

[edit] Discography

• Odessa (1995)
• Milk and Scissors (1996)
• Down in the Valley (Irish Compilation of the first two CDs)
• Invisible Hands (Vinyl EP-1997)
• Through the Trees (1998)
• In the Air (2000)
• Twilight (2001)
• Live at the Schuba's Tavern (2001)
• Smothered and Covered (2002)
• Singing Bones (2003)
• Last Days Of Wonder (2006)

[edit] Books

• Evil (Short stories by Rennie Sparks), Black Hole Press 2000

[edit] External links

• www.handsomefamily.com Official Website
• [1] Myspace Page
• [2] Carrot Top Records band page
• The Handsome Family collection at the Internet Archive's live music archive