Chynna & Vaughan

I could see this one going two ways. And I’m sure I’m not the only one.

The news to which the above is referring to is the debut of Chynna & Vaughan – a new Christian pop duo comprised of two songwriters named, well, Chynna & Vaughan. Chynna Phillips formed half the namesake of ‘90s super-selling female group, Wilson Phillips – most known for number one hits like “Hold On,” “Release Me” and “You’re In Love.” Vaughan Penn’s toured with Edwin McCain, Huey Lewis and Emmylou Harris among others while having several songs featured on the likes of The Hills, Grey’s Anatomy and many others.

In other words, two pop songstresses look to make their new mark together singing love songs about Jesus in the Christian music market. It’s either the stuff of industry-wise talents coming together to craft something impressive or two artists finding a way to keep the career fires burning. Hence the “see this going two ways” above and even after listening to One Reason, I’m still not sure which way this one goes down.

One reason why One Reason might make some noise is that some rather solid pop constructs exist on the disc. The title track weaves some nice harmonies and darker progressions to create the album’s strongest tune. It also means it only goes downhill from here. Yet that’s more a testament to the strength of the first song than anything else. Well, maybe.

One thing that “One Reason,” the song, also does is establish the Wilson Phillips sound nearly two decades later as a sound that can still work in the right framework. Not that it can’t sound dated, and not that this is just a reprise of what you heard nearly 20 years ago. It’s just obviously the waters in which Phillips is most comfortable.

Other highlights on One Reason include “Garden Promise,” which has a great acoustic arrangement that includes a mandolin in tow. The harmonica and guitar work give a great country feel in the album’s midsection. “Come Straight Through” sounds like an Out of the Grey outtake (that’s a good thing). And “Eye for an Eye” holds an edgier vibe, even if it uses the pieces already present.

The rest? Take it or leave it. Some of it is just boring, quite frankly, of which “Was It You?” is the greatest offender. Others are too nice, but even the titles could have told you that (“Everyday Miracles,” “Soften Me” anyone?). And even through the tolerable-to-good songs, the approach simply becomes tiresome after a while.

But what emerges here is an interesting quandary – a sign that I’d believe could point either direction in the future. Some key ingredients are present here to ensure a longer-term success for Chynna & Vaughan – one that knows what it takes to write songs that folks want to hear. At the same time, there’s a reason why they’re swimming in the waters they are now, rather than their former pool. Perhaps it’s just a longing to make Christian music and, if so, then here’s their chance. As for me, I’m still a bit confused.

Tagged as: Chynna & Vaughan, Chynna Phillips, Vaughan Penn

↓ 3 comments

#1 Aaron on November 28th, 2009 at 11:53 pm

I love the first line of the review. ha!

#2 Chris Unthank on December 1st, 2009 at 12:58 pm

Totally agree Matt! In some ways – I was really impressed with their craft – and in others, I was bored to death.

#3 josh facade on December 12th, 2009 at 11:04 pm

guess matt is just too cool for this record.

loved one reason, something divine, now i know your love, was it you, my king, eye for an eye, and everyday miracles.

saw them live on tour with new song too. they were terrific live. matt sounds like a frustrated musician/ songwriter.

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