David Crosby reportedly calls them the best vocal group in the country, and it's easy to hear why: individually and collectively, the Lennon cousins and brothers who comprise
Venice have been working studio vocalists for the cream of California musicians from
Jackson Browne to
Warren Zevon. Their enmeshed harmonies recall those of another beach group comprised of relatives, but the music has the easy spirit of Hotel California. At its best, there's songcraft like the brothers Finn of
Crowded House ("Always"). At its worst, it sinks to MOR depths. Regardless, it's difficult to find an argument against their vocal-intensive cover of
Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide." ~ Denise Sullivan