REVIEW: SHE & HIM AT RED BUTTE GARDEN

… Let’s start with the opening act JEMS (spelled with all caps). A Southern California based female folk trio, they were gems indeed! Their ethereal, three-part harmonies filled the bucolic setting of Red Butte Garden with a distinct Wilson Phillips vibe, and fit perfectly with the evening’s theme. Wilson Phillips was the meteoric, yet short-lived ‘90s vocal group fronted by Carnie and Wendy Wilson, the daughters of Brian Wilson. JEMS’ folk-harmony style has that Laurel Canyon sound reminiscent of The Mamas & the Papas and Crosby, Stills and Nash while retaining a unique authenticity. 

JEMS knocked out 10 great numbers and left me wanting more. To the crowd’s delight, Deschanel joined them on stage for their third song, a cover of the mid-’60s Barbara Lewis early R&B classic “Baby I’m Yours.” The song was well suited to Deschanel’s vocal style and the JEMS three-part harmonies gave it a spirited, soulful depth.