I discovered Bird Courage in my subway station on a blustery, raw fall day. Holding court at the north end of the platform, Samuel Saffery and Erik Meier didn't seem bothered by the continual roar of approaching trains and the less than rapt attention morning commuters were giving them. Weaving acoustic guitar melodies and vocals together, the two were covering (to my utter delight) The Tallest Man On Earth, dead on.
The spirit of their EP, A Promising Flee, reflects the influence of the Tallest Man -- masterful acoustic guitar is present, as is the stripped-down yet musically rich folk sound the tracks showcase. Still, this isn't a strictly imitative effort. The dual vocals lend variety to tracks, as the two alternate taking lead, joining together in rich, Simon and Garfunkel style-harmony. A very solid effort overall, and a promising collection of songs from two musicians I expect to see in places far beyond my subway station.
Check of the full album here.