Walt & Jackie share an affinity for songwriting that goes well beyond the years they have known each other. Though very different artistically, the unexpected blending of the sweet sound of Jackie’s melodic music with the rough-around-the-edges gruffness that Walt masterfully delivers is surprisingly fresh and delectable. "Take Time" a collection of original and classic Christmas songs brings a smile to the face, when you talk to Walt and Jackie. The love and spirit of each song shines thru from the moment the first chord is struck. The writing of their much-anticipated flagship collaborative album, “Bare,”and now "Take Time", has been an interesting challenge for the duo. Because each artist brings a significantly different style to the writing room, they had to find a way to make their collective voice shine through, without ignoring the individuals behind it. Throughout the writing process, some of the songs were like turning on a lamp: you reach over, hear the click, and immediately feel the warm, comforting glow of the emanating light. Other songs were more like that stupid fight you have with your best friend over and over and over again: you can’t quite seem to figure out what’s wrong, but you just keep banging away until something breaks. Either way, they worked tirelessly to be certain that every word and every note belonged to the story they were telling. They want their music to invite the listener in and to make him or her comfortable enough to visit time and time again. Their persistence has paid off, and the album has most certainly brought out the best of each songwriter’s talents. Their relatable lyrics bend perfectly around catchy melodies and inviting harmonies to show the listener the world through the eyes of a small-town dreamer. •