8/10
Ceretana’s third full-length 'Champagne' arrives as a heartfelt celebration of life’s fleeting moments, and it’s nothing short of intoxicating. The Connecticut-based duo of Chris “Migs” Mignanelli and Marty Moran have long been purveyors of Americana-tinged indie folk, and here they push their craft into cinematic territory. Across its twelve tracks, 'Champagne' navigates joy, nostalgia, and reflection with an intimacy that feels both lived-in and universal.
From the opening title-track, we are immediately drawn into the duo’s reflective world. Moran’s contemplative vocals paired with delicate piano and harmonica set a bittersweet tone, exploring the nuances of a complicated partnership. Then the album shifts gears with '1000 Miles', where driving acoustic and electric guitars meet spirited harmonica flourishes, giving the track a kinetic energy that evokes both open roads and restless longing. It’s a masterclass in balancing introspection with momentum.
Ceretana’s true strength lies in their interplay. Mignanelli’s warm lead on tracks like 'Suit' and 'Think of Me' offers lyrical honesty wrapped in rich harmonies and expressive guitar work, while Moran’s piano and organ layers, along with subtle ambient touches, add emotional depth and texture. The duo’s ability to alternate between vocal leads gives the album a dynamic ebb and flow, keeping us engaged across every vignette.
The closing tracks 'Gone' and 'This River' are particularly moving. Moran channels grief and remembrance into sweeping, melancholy reflections, crafting moments of quiet catharsis. It’s here that 'Champagne' proves itself as a coherent narrative about resilience, memory, and the beauty of impermanence.
Self-produced with mastering by Leo Sokolovsky, 'Champagne' is a triumph of storytelling and musicianship. It’s a record that invites repeated listens, rewarding patience with lyrical depth, melodic warmth, and the kind of folk-rock intimacy that makes you feel both grounded and lifted. Ceretana have crafted a work that celebrates life’s fleeting brilliance while leaving a lingering glow by the time it ends.
