Chatham Rabbits’ latest album, Be Real With Me, finds the North Carolina husband-and-wife duo exploring themes of love, regret, and the push and pull between ambition and domesticity. Sarah and Austin McCombie’s music has always felt deeply personal, reflecting not just their creative partnership but their life together. This time, they lean into that intimacy with songs that ask difficult questions about choices made and roads not taken.
The album’s sonic palette remains rooted in acoustic folk and Americana, but there’s a notable expansion in sound. Producer Saman Khoujinian adds subtle electronic flourishes and layered instrumentation, lending a modern edge to their traditionally homespun aesthetic. Songs like “Did I Really Know Him?” embrace atmospheric synth textures, while “Gas Money” brings in electric guitar and a driving rhythm that feels almost anthemic.
Lyrically, Be Real With Me is unflinchingly honest. The title track, along with “Collateral Damage” and “Facing 29,” capture the internal conflicts of adulthood—balancing dreams with responsibilities, freedom with stability. Sarah’s clear, expressive vocals, reminiscent of Iris DeMent or Nanci Griffith, lend weight to these musings, while Austin’s harmonies provide a grounding warmth.
Despite the new sonic elements, the duo’s core strength remains their harmonies and evocative songwriting. Whether on the stripped-down “Pool Shark’s Table” or the lilting instrumental “Big Fish, Small Pond,” the McCombies prove they can captivate without overcomplication. Their ability to blend old-timey folk with contemporary sensibilities makes Be Real With Me both fresh and timeless.
With this album, Chatham Rabbits push their sound just enough to keep things interesting while staying true to their roots. It’s a mature, reflective work—one that resonates with anyone who’s ever found themselves at a crossroads, wondering what might come next. – Jason Felton