Cactus Blossoms, Two Runner
Jacob Blickenstaff
A close-up of the Cactus Blossoms.
The Cactus Blossoms
The Minneapolis-based brother act (Page Burkum and Jack Torrey) celebrates and puts their own stamp on the great “blood harmony” singing styles of acts like the Louvin Brothers, the Bee Gees and the Everlys. They’re constantly touring as headliners and in support of others including Wilco and Jenny Lewis. The relentless performing schedule seems to more tightly twine their voices together as time passes. Opening is Two Runner — Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose — who drench their old-time sound in large quantities of hipness.
$20 ($17 adv.).
media release: Whether it’s The Beach Boys, Bee Gees or First Aid Kit, blood harmonies — that effortless sibling vocal blend— is the secret sauce in some of the most spine-tingling moments in popular music. The Cactus Blossoms, fronted by Minneapolis-based brothers Page Burkum and Jack Torrey, are compelling evidence that this tradition is alive and well. Their timeless sound and original songs have earned them tour stints with artists such as Wilco, Jenny Lewis and Lucius, as well as a perfectly cast performance on David Lynch’s Twin Peaks.
In 2022, they released One Day, an album of original songs that “soar gracefully due to the effortless harmonies and uncluttered arrangements” (Holler), followed by an EP covering songs by Bob Dylan. The Cactus Blossoms were featured on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert's "Late Show Me Music" series performing their Top 5 Americana Radio single "Hey Baby." The song, featuring the brothers' trademark harmonies and an upbeat message, was lauded by Guitar World, The Boot, The Bluegrass Situation, The Minneapolis Star-Tribune and more. Check this space for updates:
T he band has announced that their recent digital EP, If Not For You (Bob Dylan Songs Vol. 1), will be available for the first time on 12-inch, 45 rpm limited-edition blue marble vinyl. This special Record Store Day release will be available exclusively at participating stores starting April 22; click HERE for info. www.thecactusblossoms.
RECENT PRESS:
“A lot of cool people seem to be very impressed with the Cactus Blossoms” —Stereogum
“Intimate harmonies that envelop us in a warm and familiar pop sound.” —No Depression
“Immaculate, country-informed harmonies” —Guitar World
“A set of songs that summon optimism even in the midst of these troubled times." —American Songwriter
“The Cactus Blossoms magically travel to that timeless place where innocence and experience coexist in the front seat of a car moving through the heart of America." —Popmatters
“With their trademark rhythmic, groovy guitar licks and driving percussion, ‘Hey Baby’ offers up a message of optimism that we all could use right now” —The Boot
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Chris Lotten