SELECTED CD REVIEWS 1996-2002: Various Reviewers / Cosmic Debris Musicians Mag -
Updated: Jan, 2003 Copyright 2003 - Cosmic Debris Musicians Magazine
Only reviewed artists may freely use these articles for their own promo purposes
VARIOUS - "ROCKTORIA 10"
Blackberry Henry, Perils of Pauline, PRRr, Aaron Grant
contact 100.3 the Q (250) 475-0100
review by barry newman
Initiated largely by The Q's radio program director Dave Farough some 10 years ago, the annual
Rocktoria CD project has been a very cool &
supportive element of the Island's rock & pop scene.
This year's Rocktoria CD is a particular delight for me to review, having performed onstage with
several of the represented musicians (Shannon
Smiley & Eric Andersen at numerous gigs & jams in the Cowichan Valley over the past 8 years.
Aaron Grant backed me up on drums when I played
at The Queens Hotel last October).
It's tough to identify my favourite tracks on Rocktoria 10...
...but I guess all the songs by Perils of
Pauline make me feel good, no matter what mood
I'm in.
This texture-focused team of pop-rock experts present a product which is seasoned for all
seasons, blending an imaginative potpourri of 60's guitar
effects, Beatle-calibre harmonies & bass lines, and seriously-solid percussion work by Rich
Lang. Guitar & vocals are shared by Shawn Wilson and
Stephan Leenheer (my guess is that Shawn might have a bit more to do with the lyrics &
arrangements; Stephan does more of the guitar trips n' tricks).
Thoughtfully-blended splicing of root and harmonic bass lines (plus vocal harmonies) are
courtesy of Chuck Simms. Blackberry Henry is guitarist/songwriter/arranger Kevin Westwick's (remember Gabriel
Hounds?) new crew of cohorts - Shannon Smiley on lead
vocals, Erik Andersen (drums) and Paul Waghorn (bass).
My favourite track is "I Breathe". This track almost left me breathless and "Poor Man's Paradise" made me reach deep into my pockets for some rich
adjectives coined in Canada, eh. PURRr is December Pussycat (lyrics/vocals), Allan Hannigan (guitars/vocs), Ryan Rock (bass & piano) and Brian Cameron (drums).
Extremes of both feminist outrage and sultry sensuality are brewed to puRRrfection in their
distuRRbing tracks which cut like a tampon string on a sudden uRRrge.
"It's Never Enough" is tastefully spiked with fancy feast. Other tracks are sauteed with Catfish
and Tiger Shark... all loaded with protein & quite
nutritious... served up in a rich red tide of warm El Nino currents. Aaron Grant's tracks offer more subtle material... suicide of down-stairs tenants, homophobia and grads wiped out in car crashes... honest, tongue-in-cheek banality designed for the times. Aaron, studying jazz at Malaspina College, played all the instruments with straightahead
accuracy. "Joe's Apartment" is the hit with the bullet.
Roctoria 10, ably produced & engineered by Rick Erickson, is a fine mix of moody
masterpieces for both the wrinkled & the restless. Back
BIRGIT
'Running With The Wolves'
review by barry newman
The songs on Birgit's first CD offer a sweet balance of
worldly wisdom, romantic flair and social insight... very ably
delivered by one of the finest female singers I've heard in
a while.
Birgit's expressive vocals embrace the touch &
technique of a wide range of fine artists... from Fleetwood
Mac's more acoustic leanings, to traces of Shaun Colvin,
Joni Mitchell, Judy Collins...
Likewise, Birgit's inventive guitar work is also
exceptionally-melodic, accurate and percussively-precise.
My favourite tracks include 'You're My Fire',
'Somebody's Daughter', 'Trying To Find A Reason'...
Some fine fretless-bass work by Scott McLeod; cello
by Kathy Stacey; and vocal harmonies by Shannon
Ingersoll on various tracks... very tastefully-engineered n'
mastered by Jerry Paquette at Raincoast Studio.
Birgit: www.purpledogmusic.com Back
VARIOUS ARTISTS (Victoria-based): "Pluto's - The Open Stage" (1998)
review by barry newman
If you've been seeking a dynamite collection of mature, meaningful & melodic tunes to satisfy
your quest for listenable sanity (guaranteed within your
budget too!) ... go no further.
All on one (1) CD, this collection of tracks by artists who've performed at Pluto's restaurant
offers a delicious lick at the cream of Victoria's secret talent. Wayne Forseth (manager at Long & McQuades) & Mark Leischner have been hosting the open
stage at this Victoria venue for nearly two years.
Their considerable talents, efforts and connections have resulted in this truly-remarkable
compilation disk.
Right off the top, you get three very heavy-duty tracks here by Wyckham Porteous, John Gogo
and Sean Hogan, each of which is worth an expensive
shot of good scotch (or cost of the CD).
"Blind Love" by the brilliant poet / songsmith Wyckham Porteous is richly-textured and knocked
up with rapid lyrical imagery. Your head will spin.
"My Neck of The Woods" by Sean Hogan deals with outdated logging practices and will surely
send shivers down your backpack during a well-intentioned spasm down the West Coast Trail
on a lost Labour Day weekend.
"Come Clean" by John Gogo is drenched with some of the warmest chord structuring you've
ever heard. Dead poets, former cabbies and clairvoyant
gynecologists will understand the lyrics. Don't mess with the volume on this track... unless it's too
low.
Other artists include: Perils of Pauline, Ouch, Annette Ducharme, Brad Loomes, Kasper Veil, Ty
Chandler, Wayne Forseth, Kevin Cryderman,
Mark Leishner, Terry Phelps, Tony Horlor and Deep Root.
All of these performers offer excellent material on this CD. I was particularly impressed with the
tracks by Ouch & Annette Ducharme.
One of the finest compilation CD's I've heard to date - an essential item for the collection of
anyone even vaguely interested in Victoria's pop, folk/rock
scene. For info concerning any of these artists, Mad Squirrel Records at (250) 380-1621 will put
you in touch. Back
LADY MACHINIST "Lady Machinist"
contact (604) 708-8350
review by barry newman
Receipt of this invigorating CD was preceeded by several brief anonymous "ransom"-fonted
letters over the course of ten days. I hid under my bed
with a Kalishnikov and a rusty machete, believing this was revenge for skipping review of the
latest Lorena Bobbit Family CD.
Based somewhere on the lower mainland, Lady Machinist is comprised of Jen Brown (vocals),
Patrick Moroz (guitar), Jeff Trebilcock (bass) & Wade
Holcroft on drums. Solid performances by all and inventive arrangements throughout, their CD is
definitely eclectic westcoast edge-rock with a tasty
goober of smooth jazz slipped in to confuse the vegetarians... sort of a raw, yet slick "99
Jefferson LuftBalloons" feel... for those who remember the 20th
century.
My favourite track: "Sick"... starts out with a risky off-beat bassline and Jen's jogging jags at
conformity... gradually making way for infectious feminist
fury.
Faithfully engineered & co-produced (with the band) by Greg Mark. Mastered by Craig Waddell
at Gotham City Studios. At first, I felt that a touch more
effects might have enhanced the band's superb presentation somewhat, but... "if it ain't broke,
don't fix it".
Watch for this band... and pay close attention to Jen Brown's bold, pleasing vocal style &
playfully-cynical lyrics. Back
ZUBOT & DAWSON: "Strang"
(604) 224-5717 bhrec@istar.ca
review by barry newman
It didn't take me long to cherish this impeccable jewel. As soon as it nestled in my CD player, I
was royally breastfed far-out flavours of certain haunting
Herbie Mann & Ry Cooder carpetry from many moons ago... cerebral stuff which I thought had
been purged by the disco decade or commercialized via
some toothless tyke's jet-fueled banjo delivery in "Deliverance".
Accuracy abounds on "Strang", but the real low-down on this CD lies in the inflection and attack.
Acoustic riffs & hits are lovingly-executed and hand-fried by masters Jesse Zubot (fiddle,
mandolin) & Steve Dawson (acoustic guitar, slide guitar, banjo & weissenborn). Calloused fingertips are rarely this sensitive in the studio, and my guess is that there was no cheating or dubbed retakes on this project.
My favourite track is Dawson's "Spider Season", cleverly woven to entangle your cosmic
consciousness in a sticky tape-delayed wilderness of wonder.
Produced by Zubot & Dawson; recorded & mixed by Andy Bowmer at Maximum Music.
Mastered at Gotham City Studios by Craig Waddell. Photo
by James Dittiger... hmmm... where have I heard those names before?
The duo (who also work with Tumbleweed and Linda McCrae) have recently performed at most
regional festivals of note. Back
SHAKAMORAINE: "Part of the Crime"
tel/fax: (604) 826-6737. (604) 988-3908 shaka@imag.net
review by Barry Newman
Truly-impressive songwriting and solid arrangements are the hallmarks of SHAKAMORAINE's
excellent, spellbinding CD.
This fairly young rock band out of Coquitlam has put together a veritable "Greatest Hits" debut CD - packed with gems - all deserving of Top-40 airplay.
I detect a bit of 70's influence here - keyboard and harmony textures which sometimes remind
me of Supertramp or Ambrosia. It's hard to nail down
my favourite track on this formidable CD... practically every song has something unique and
ear-catching. The hook-laden arrangements and melodies
are guaranteed to snatch you up quicker than a photo radar by the Cassidy airport.
The SHAKAMORAINE team is: Dan Marshall (keys & lead vocals), Mike Physick (lead guitar),
Steve Halfnights (guitar), Paul Fournier (bass) and
Kevin Pawluck (drums).
Watch out for these guys, especially songwriter Dan Marshall... definitely one of the more
mature and articulate west coast lyricists I've heard in a long time.
"Part of The Crime" was engineered & produced largely by Kent Thompson at AGM studios.
With this jewel in your CD rack, not only will you have an excellent disc which you'll want to play
over and over... it will also be an original collector's item after the band gets picked up by a big label. Back
THE MAROONS: "Orange Barrel"
Email: maroons@pacificcoast.net
review 1998 by Monte Nordstrom
These "Naughty Boys" really do "need a spanking". Exploding out of the hophead hotbed of
Metchosin, this quirky quintet of mayhem turns in a consistantly loopy brand of garage rock.
Recorded at Scott Henderson's Sea of Shit Studio in Colwood; lead
vocalist/ guitarist Don Ounsworth is joined by "Drivin" on Keys/Guitar &
Vocals, "Duck" Rowse on multi-saxes & the pumping rhythm section of bassist Bob Miron & drummer Matt Vause. This is the second CD for the band
which has been more or less together for more or less than five years.
My favourites here are "Workin' Too Slow", "Madness is a Virtue", "No More Cryin", "Part of the Plan" and "Entertain the Thought".
So if working too slow is part of the plan, entertain the thought that 'madness is a virtue, you
naughty boys. Keep on rockin' and melt me up some boom
boom before someone clocks the waitress and you find out whatcha gonna be without me. Huh?
Oops a flashback, coool tracers....
With original material that incorporates nascent quotes & nods to and from The Seeds, Doug &
the Slugs, Curtis Mayfield, Traffic and Insect Trust, these
Maroonatics present a pallette of perversity.
The album concludes with a faithfully trancribed "One Ring Jane" from Mother Tucker's Yellow
Duck which offers an additional lysergic clue to where
this carefree gang is coming from. The Maroons... "Orange Barrel" ! Check it out! Back
THE SPECIAL GUESTS "Everybody Rock"
contact (250) 360-6566
review by David Barnes
What can I say, other than that this is the single greatest recording of the 20th century?
Perhaps I should tell all the industry types out there that if
they're looking for catchy, radio-friendly tunes that have a gimmick, but more importantly,
longevity, The Special Guests are their people. Their '50's-esque rock tunes with a modern edge
simply outclass the competition, grabbing one's attention with endless hooks and innocent
charm, most notably
found in the vocals of singer/guitarist Adam Kittredge. Also on guitar is Piers Henwood.
Packed with entertainment, this 8-song release (or 9, if you happen upon the hidden track
concerning 'Little Buddy') is sure to turn some heads with
it's definitely fun ambience.
The recording: each drum and cymbal is clear and distinct, but not separate-sounding, as so
many badly mixed drums end up; the guitar tones are
rich, and lightly overdriven at times; the bass is phat; the vocals kick ass, especially in the chorus of opener "3rd Street."
Particularly impressive is the performance of the rhythm section, consisting of Brendan Pye on
drums and Jocelyn Greenwood on bass - tighter
than the straps on my straightjacket. These 2 individuals tear me from my normal position of
banging my bleeding head against the stage to getting down
on the dance floor, even when there isn't one! Amazing...
A special mention goes to the fantastic packaging job of "Everybody Rock," which compliments the late '50's / early '60's sound of their music with
visual images of the aforementioned eras. Kudos to the designer!
Produced & mixed by Rick Salt & the band at Island Pacific Studios. Engineered by Rick Salt
and mastered by Craig Waddell at Gotham City.
The CD may be purchased at HMVs and A & B Sounds all over the island and in Vancouver.
The Special Guests may be contacted c/o
microGROOVE Entertainment (250) 360-6566 or (250) 652-3001
Fax: (250) 477-8048 or (250) 652-9309 Email: tsg@intro.ca
...and hey! If you're still not convinced, visit their website at www.intro.ca/tsg Back
THE BOTTOMFEEDERS WATERVIEW Review by David Brand
I was more than thrilled when Regan Myers of Wireworks Digital gave me a copy of this fine CD.
I had been in his studio during some of the mixing and had enjoyed Coral Palm's "In Years from Now" and
I was delighted to find how much I enjoyed the rest of the album. One of the first things that struck me
was the diversity of themes and musical arrangements. There are traditional songs, songs about fishing,
songs about being a fisherman's wife and even songs about the prowess of a gooey duck clam.
Some how these guys manage to use bi-valve mollusk in not just one but two songs. How do they do it?
These local Vancouver Islanders (westcoasters it seems) must be a lot of fun to see live.
Tunes like "Gooseneck Barnacle Pickers" and "Clamdigger" are sea shanties of the finest order and I can
picture a bar full of fishermen and fisherwomen swaying to the music and singing along to the lyrics.
Mandolins, fiddles and accordions grace this recording fitting the tunes to a t. The opener "Waterview"
is one of my favorites along with "Wait Some More" I look forward to the day when the wind blows us
together so I can enjoy them in person.
Contact the Bottomfeeders at Website: www.bottomfeeders.ca P.O. Box 171 Tofino, B.C. Canada V0R2Z0
Back
NICKLEBACK "Curb"
SECD14006 - c/o: #415 A-470 Granville St. Vancouver, BC, V6C1Z5
review by Monte Nordstrom
This is Nickleback's first CD from 1996. The group is formed around the Kroeger boys, who I
believe originally hale from central Alberta. Ryan Peake
adds rhythm guitar & backing vocals to leader Chad Kroger's searing vocals & lead guitar with
brothers (or cousins?) Mike & Brandon providing the
rhythm section.
This HARD rocking CD was produced by Larry Anschell at Turtle Studio in Richmond. Some of
the tracks remind me a bit of a more focused
"Soundgarden" or maybe a bit of "Pearl Jam" if Vedder would stop wanking around.
Individual tracks that stand out to me are the title cut, "Curb", "Little Friend", "Sea Groove" &
"Fly".
As a reviewer & fan I would like to have seen a lyric sheet with the package, a band photo and
once again, some bio material.
I caught these guys in action at the Starfish Room during NMW98. They were joined by
Duncan's Mitch Guindon who has replaced the original
drummer, Brandon Kroeger since this CD's recording. This recording and their performance are
one in the same. Solid Hard Alt rock, no-nonsense
& straight to the point.
Word has it that Nickleback is poised to release their new CD. From what I've seen & heard it
should be a knockout. I look forward to hearing it.
Nickleback! Back
DAVE HARRIS "Slim's Blue Dreams"
review by Ron Forbes-Roberts
Let's say you're a budding bluesman who has devoted thousands of hours to learning all the
tunes and techniques of your idols. Once you've got it
all locked-what then? Well, you could pride yourself on your note-to-note reproduction of
Walkin" Blues" and leave it at that. Or you could follow Dave
Harris' example and create something of your own that is still solidly in the tradition.
Dave has great blues chops on several instruments: slide guitar, harmonica and fiddle in
particular. As if this wasn't enough, he plays these
instruments, in various combinations, simultaneously. For years Dave's one-man-band was
heard live (often busking on Government Street) or not at
all but last year's release 'Island Street Singer' changed that. That CD was made up of classic
and obscure acoustic country blues tunes (with some
originals) recorded with no overdubs. Slim's Blue Dreams', Dave's new release, continues that basic format but offers a more
complete rendering of his abilities. Harris plays electric guitar
on several cuts allowing him to display his expertise in many styles, besides the country blues
tunes predominant on his first CD, including sixties soul
and Chicago blues. But the major difference is the source material - 75% of the tunes on Dream'
were written by Harris and some of these are gems.
The Chicago Blues style Crowed at the bottom' (lonely at the top... crowed at the bottom) is
brilliant. In place, Dave's more philosophical musings
seem a little too cheerful and optimistic for blues context. But no matter. The CD's strengths and
highlights are mainly instrumental and there are many
of them: the fiddle/harp duet on Good Morning Blues', the panpipe-like harp solo on Give Them
Their Flower', the double-time guitar on Slim's Blue
Dream', the slide solo that opens Strung Out No 2 - and these are just the first four of the
nineteen cuts on Dream'!
There's hair-raising playing throughout and if you love blues virtuosity, you want this album. It'll
have you dancing down to Government Street to count
the guy's hands. Back
PEETER PRINCE: "Whispering Rain"
Box 718, Ganges, Salt Spring Is., BC, V8K 2W3 (250) 537-2116
review by barry newman
Peeter Prince is noted for his relaxed, multi-textured, new-age acoustic vibrations and
'Whispering Rain' - his third CD - wanders along the same forrest
paths, ancient creeks and sandy beaches as do his previous ethereal works.
Peter's lyrics emanate a strong devotion to family values and an appreciation for a laidback
lifestyle many of us yearn for (or may have attempted at
some point).
My favourite track is 'Sweet Surrender' (not to be confused with Sarah M.'s song). Written "at
Kalika Creek" (location of site inspirations are included
with titles), this melodic ballad opens with the sound of gentle waves lapping against the shore.
Some of the musicians & singers include: Oool Fjolkunnigr, Ian Van Wyck, Tara MacLean,
Marcelle Nakony, Calvin Cairns, Jane Philips and
"The Earthquakes".
Produced by Peeter Prince and engineered, mixed n' mastered by Paul Brosseau at Nomad
Studios.
If you like your mead homemade in a V/W van, you'll love the craft of Peter Prince. Back
LYNDIA SCOTT: "You Can Crash Here"
management (604) 266-1175
review by barry newman
Rich guitar harmonies (is that a 12-string?) introduce the title song on Lyndia Scott's
wonderfully-warm CD 'You Can Crash Here'.
As with many of the following tracks, there's an abundance of relaxed sincerity and conviction in
Lyndia's singing and the lyrics of the songs she's
chosen are down-to-earth and unpretentious... "I know you're used to champagne, but if you
don't mind drinking beer, you can crash here." The fading
violin, interspersed with Lyndia's haunting cries, is just one of the many superb embellishments
by producer/ engineer/guitarist John M. Ellis.
'One Stone In The Water' (by Gord Maxwell, J. Foster and M. McLaughlin) is another one of my
favourites here.
'As Good As You Look', 'The Way That Lovers Do' and Lyndia's sardonic 'Eat My Dust' also
have a lot of hooks which should garner plenty of attention
from country music audiences.
This is Lyndia's 3rd CD. Her first 'Isn't it Always Love' had no less than six top-40 songs in
Canada.
She has a wealth of awards under her belt (winner '89 BC Bud Talent contest; 3rd Place 1989
CCMA National Talent Finals; 7 consecutive
nominations BCCMA Female Vocalist & Horizon Award) and has opened for Juice Newton, Lacy
J. Dalton, John Mayall and Michelle Wright.
Lyndia has performed at numerous festivals (Ottawa Exhibition, Merritt Mountain Festival,
Fanfest L.A., DauphinFest, etc)... I was quite fortunate to
have heard her witty show and eclectic mix of originals and covers (Doobies, Doors n' Don
Henley) at a local inn earlier this year.
The array of musicians on this CD is awesome: Gerry Adolphe, Dennis Marchenko, Darryl
Havers, John Stoltz, Shawn Soucy, Gord Maxwell,
Jim Dorin (pedal steel), Jim Ryan, Miles Black, etc...
...and yet another excellent mastering job by Craig Waddell at Gotham City. Back
SHEILA RYAN: "Samrad Linn"
management 1-888-801-1811
review by barry newman
Impeccable performance and production abound in singer/harpist Sheila Ryan's classic/celtic
CD.
Most of the tracks are composed by Sheila, with a couple penned by Bill Gallagher. Others are
traditional, with Sheila's arrangements. Upon first
listening, I had believed that more of the tunes were traditional, but that is perhaps an indication
of the faithfulness to the style and genre with which Sheila
adheres.
The power and clarity of Sheila Ryan's soaring vocals are truly-formidable. The ensemble she
has assembled for this recording is comprised of nearly
twenty top-notch performers, including Ken Hall, Richard Lang, Daniel Lapp, Caridwen Irvin, Doug Cox ...
'Samrad Linn' (which means a celebration of the arrival of summer) was expertly produced,
recorded and mastered by Mark Franklin at Media Magic
in Victoria. Back
BOB SNIDER: "Words & Pictures"
EMI 7243854557-28
(416) 922-3620 fax: 340-2695. email: bob@connection.ca
review by barry newman
I keep playing this CD.
Despite a backlog of over a dozen decent CD's which I've been meaning to review ... whenever
I get writer's block (or any form of cerebral
constipation) ... I fire on Bob Snider's 'Words and Pictures' in order to feel good about the world's
terrible problems, including the backlog of over a dozen
decent CD's I've been meaning to review.
At a recent concert in Shawnigan Lake, I asked Mr. Snider which of his CD's he recommended.
The song titles on his earlier recording looked quite
intriguing, but he suggested the aptly-titled 'Words and Pictures' (I'll be looking out for his first
CD too, now).
Bob Snider is a giant of a songsmith and a wiley vocalist whose very smile
is a social statement. He doesn't mince words... he rescues them from dark,
hungover places and plants them where they can grow. Sometimes, he'll
salvage prickly thorns just for balance...
"The Street Takes You In ...
doesn't care where you been
or even what you may intend
It was there when you came...
it is always the same
and it will be there in the end..."
"The street takes you in...
it is haggard and thin
but it always looks after its own...
and where ever you go,
there are people you'll know
and they'll always lead you alone
to a door that is silently closing...
You can hear someone laugh
from within
Then the laughter is lost.
That is part of the cost...
of the business the sidewalk is in...
All the pigeons still walk
like Chuck Berry...
to the tune of a numberless car
but the people who pass,
they look now alas, as foreign
as creatures from Mars..."
Most songs on this CD are gentler than 'The Street Takes You In'. Snider's Sgt-Pepper-side
keeps a watchful eye on the Bukowski and Tom Waits
driving skills.
Some very tasty horns, violin, slide guitar and backup vocals sprinkled throughout, with a fine
rhythm section... none of which gets in the poet's face,
due to careful mix & mastering by Harvey Jay Goldberg & Brett Zihali respectively.
Snider plays guitar, as does David Baxter. Other musicians include Terry Wilkins, Al Cross,
James Gray, Chris Whiteley, Anne Bourne, Melanie
Doane, Laura Hubert and Ron Sexsmith.
If you don't buy this CD soon, something terrible will happen. Back
STEPHEN FEARING: "Industrial Lullaby"
True North Records TNSD 0151 Produced by Colin
Linden
review 1998 by Monte Nordstrom
This is Stephen's 4th album, not counting the fine "Blacky & the Rodeo Kings" project he did
last year with Linden & Junkhouse leader, Tom Wilson.
There they featured Willie P. Bennett's material, in an effort to elevate that formerly neglected
writer's status. Bennett plays his patent harmonica on 2
cuts here.
Both Linden & Wilson contribute as do Richard Bell, Bazil Donovan, Margo Timmins & Fearing's
co-publisher Bruce Cockburn. Nice company (very
similar to the roster on Linda MacRae's recent Stony Plain release) & a fine production. But how
could results be anything but fine with this crew.
Fearing's writing has matured with the protracted effort of the task and this most shows on his 2
co-writes with Wilson & one with Bennett. He also
seems to be finding his own voice. I've often found him to be too reminiscent of Richard
Thompson both in style & content to be totally convincing, in
spite of his impeccable guitar work, but in this release he dispells those clouds.
Here Stephen transcends the confining practice of emulation as he explores the fears & frailties
that lie strewn though his psyche. He also manages
for the most part, to temper the morose tendencies of his poetic musings while exuding more
confidence & authority. The result is more Rice than
Lovecraft. "Industrial Lullaby" stands as his finest work to date and I highly recommend it.
Stephen has developed a pop sensibility to match the darkness of his artistry and if the
programmers in Radioland recognize this, his will become
a household name. Darkness in the charts. Hmmm. Think I'll use that myself. Back
TIM LAWSON: "The Quiet Canadian"
Timberholme Records. c/o: www.timberholme.com
review by Monte Nordstrom
This is Surrey-based singer/ songwriter, Tim Lawson's first foray into the recording world. At the
age of 44 he seems to have all the right ingredients
together to make a late run at the big picture. A management team, a Toronto marketing
consultant, two videos and a beautiful CD package with a slick
promo kit. Now for that experience factor.
The recording's quality production showcases a talent for thoughtful song crafting. Tim's gentle
tenor vocals & rhythm guitar are backed by a solid
team of studio musicians, that includes Vince Ditrich, Jim MacGillveray & co-producer Richard
Sera. The rhythm section (to die for) does much for the
material. "Spirit Song" in particular.
This is one CD from a newcomer that warrants multiple plays. If the gods are just, Tim Lawson
will eke out a niche in the intensively competitive world
of commercial music. Watch for the video, "Falling Water" on CMT.
Good luck, Tim! Back
BOBBY CHARLES: "Secrets of the Heart"
Rice'n'Gravy / Stony Plain Records SPCD1240
review 1998 by Monte Nordstrom
Bobby Charles is one of those periphreal players in the big game who's name is vaguely familiar
but who's songwriting contributions would be considered seminal even he had only written two titles. Namely "Walking to New Orleans" for Fats Domino & "See You Later Alligator" for Bill Haley.
As a young man he was the only white artist on Chess
Records, having gotten his start at Cosimo's studio in New Orleans.
He recorded a critically acclaimed self-titled album for Bearsville Records in 1971, with
contributions from Amos Garrett, Dr.John, members of "The
Band" and more.
He dropped out of the mainstream as a performer in ensuing years but has had his songs
recorded by a veritable 'who's who' of artists in the
meantime. Ray Charles, Etta James, Lou Rawls, Gatemouth Brown, Junior Wells, UB40, Joe
Cocker, Muddy Waters, Paul Butterfield, Wilson Pickett,
Jackie DeShannon, Tom Jones, Bo Diddley, Delbert McClinton, David Allen Coe & Jerry Jeff
Walker, etc....Wow!
This recent offering features Bobby Charles' warm, dusty vocals wrapping around lyrics that just
seem so right. Backed by a journeyman cast of real
fine players like "the Meters", Wardell Quezergue, these tunes radiate his genuine talent as a natural writer.
Bobby may not be the strongest singer but the superbly funky arrangements & warm production
makes this one a real treat in a sterile calculating
world. Any one or all of the tunes contained herein could become a favorite after just one
application. As with many of Stony Plains releases, there is
an enlightening interview at the conclusion of the musical program. Check out the website:
bobbycharles.com
For a free Stony Plain catalogue, email: sprecord@planet.eon.net Back
BIG BAND TRIO: "Wolf at the Door"
Triactive 040298
review by barry newman
Hop aboard the swingin' Chattanooga Choo Choo... 1940's here we come! The Big Band Trio
will make sure you arrive in the USA... not Anzio Beach.
Glen Miller's plane is circling overhead and there's no ice on the wingtips.
This steamin' swing trio features bassist Clark Brendon, guitarist Robert Brodeur and saxman
Paul Wainwright. Pianist Nick Galichenko is a guest
on one track.
For the most part, these are Victoria-based lads (they played to packed houses at
Pagliacci's for many years) but they've also played
hundreds of gigs from New Jersey to Alaska including Expo '86, a five-month production of The
Spectacular Days of Radio at Trump Plaza (NJ) and
numerous jazz festivals. They have shared the stage with the likes of Herb Ellis, Barney Kessel,
Charlie Byrd, Etta James and Melissa Etheridge.
The CD is packed with wartime swing faves and earlier classics by Irving Berlin. Four of the five
original tracks are penned by Robert Robert, whose
title song "Wolf At The Door" is a fitting tribute to the times. Indeed, this would be quite fitting as
the theme song for the local TV news hour!
Recorded live at Legacy Sound by Tony Moskal and mastered by Mark Franklin at Media Magic.
For info or bookings, contact Paul at (250) 383-0369 or email saxman@islandnet.com Back
KEN McCOY: "Contrasts"
Fireside Records - 344 Davida Ave, Victoria, BC, V9A 2C5
review by Doc Jenkins
We haven't heard anything new from Ken in quite sometime, but that's not to say he hasn't been
very busy. This CD is proof that he's been honing
his writing skills with lyrics and music that represent a contrast between traditional and modern
country music.
The CD starts off slow with 'Take Me Back' and a well-written tear jerker 'Mama's Little Boy',
about a young boy who loses his fireman father... courts
let the arsonist go... boy grows up to be a fireman, who saves the life of the arsonist in a house
fire. [editor...Hot stuff !!] This track features some very
fine dobro playing from Robbie Steininger.
On the fourth track, 'God I Love This Country', the lines If you're gonna speak the language,
doesn't matter what you say English or French, be sure
you end it with an 'eh', could be described as written in true flag-waving Canadian fashion.
My favourite track is 'In Your Dreams' (by Ken & Sue McCoy), with an infectious boogie beat
which won't let your feet stay still.
With the exception of some occasional weak back-up harmonies, mastering by Mark Franklin /
Media Magic is very good. The CD houses a list of
accomplished musicians: Morry Stearns, Steve Soucy, Al Rogers, Jerry Adolphe, Rick Ericson,
Calvan Vollrath, Jim Woodyard, Jim Dorin, Tony
Dell, Robbie Steininger, Rick Roach and Mike Nitchie.
This is a great CD with TONS of energy, a couple of surprises and good story lines... another
terrific representation of Vancouver Island talent. Back
CAL BATCHELOR: "Now Playing" - CB001
review by barry newman
Manic & meaty, slick & slippery, uptown & upbeat, this is precision-roasted R&B for 10:45:pm on
a Friday payday. You'll dig this high-energy, rock-solid
belt of blues by veteran soul-surgeons Cal Batchelor and band.
In fact, electric blues doesn't get much better than this... especially if you are in high-gear, party
mode.
Two songs on 'Now Playin' hit me good n' hard in the solar plexus: "Days Like This" and "Black
Crow". Cal's scorchin' guitar really lets loose on these
tracks.
Onboard crew include keyboardist Robbie King, drum-meister Jimmy Fergusson, and bassist
Trevor Newman. Tasty guest spots by Joani Bye,
Sherman Doucette, Graham Howell and Tom Shorthouse. Robbie wrote the horn arrangements.
Larry Anschell at Turtle Records mixed, mastered and co-produced this wickedly-tasty CD treat.
For CD's or booking info, contact Cal Batchelor at: (604) 687-2374. Back
MIKE SHAU & HIWAY 61: "Don't Lose Sight" - FB025
review by Barry Newman
Mike Shau and his Fender faithfully unleash the spirit of Stevie Ray within these grooves,
making this blues CD a guitar-addict's delight.
'Tears Came Rollin', a slower, moody piece, is one of the showcases for Mike's searin' style.
His reverberating treatment of 'Pipeline' will bring back memories to those listened to The
Ventures or The Chantelles during the 60's
One of the jazzier tracks, 'Rain Kept Pourin' has a distinct Tom Waites kinda feel. Rights to this
song have recently been purchased by a Mississippi
publisher, with a good chance of being recorded by Johnny Winter.
Mike Shau is well-known as a session player and has worked the 'A' circuit rock & blues houses
across western Canada for many years. The line-up
of players on this, Shau's second CD, include Blaine Johnson on drums, Daniel McLean on bass
and Ken Davies on the Hammond. 'Don't Lose Sight'
was produced by Len Osanic.
ph/fax: (604) 689-0474
rdwrks@internetcoffee.com Back
TIM WILLIAMS: 'Indigo Incidents'.
Review by Bill Johnson
Legitimacy in the roots music world is a difficult test
for most Canadian artists. Tim Williams' latest CD
"Indigo Incidents" is testimony that this Calgary-based
singer, songster, guitarist has graduated with honours.
Indigo Incidents is a beautifully played and recorded
CD. From the straight-up blues of "Ain't Seen No
Whisky", to the bittersweet ballad "Letting Go Of Love",
there's something for everyone on this disk.
A master of the country blues guitar, Williams plays
the hell out of every track, always displaying the large
acoustic guitar style that I have come to know him by.
Tim Williams is certainly one of this country's leading
roots music performers.
Williams has scaled some of the arrangements down
on this recording in comparison to his "Riverboat
Rendezvous" CD. Indigo Incidents' 14 tracks, featuring
six new Williams songs, exemplifies Tim's great talent to
simply sing and play almost unaccompanied yet
retaining the power of the full band. You'll find no rented
horn sections here my friends... just Tim, his guitar, and
a few friends helping out where needed.
Contributions by Ron Casat, who lends his touch on
piano, and Steve Pineo, who besides penning one of the
songs, plays a tasty slide guitar, prove to be among the
diamonds on this recording. Back
LARRY MILLER QUINTET: "Freya's Song"
LMCD001
Review by Barry Newman
This delightful CD, produced by saxophonist Larry
Miller is a unique showcase of his own crisp
compositions and some older standards such as 'On A
Slow Boat To China". His quintet consists of some top
Nanaimo talent: Morris Macklin (trumpet & flugelhorn),
Rob Cheramy (guitar), Clinton Ryder (bass), Billy Hicks
(drums) with Heidi Melenchuk playing trombone on the
moody title track, 'Freya's Song'.
My favourite track is 'You Don't Know What Love Is'
(by D. Raye / G. Depaul). Miller's melancholy sax, with
just the right inflections, bends and deliberations, suits
my pace just fine, especially down in my office at 5:AM.
The rapidly bubbling bursts of Cheramy's guitar and
Macklin's ethereal horn on Miller's 'Groovin with Hicks'
and 'Absconded Bop' offer some more highlights.
'It Could Happen To You' also features some rapidly
dashing licks by both Cheramy and Miller.
"Freya's Song" was engineered by Dennis Ferbey
and Scott Littlejohn. Contact Larry (250) 753-8623. Back
TERRY BOYLE: "Terry Boyle" - AM100
Review by Barry Newman
Lots of fine lyrics and a smooth, relaxed vocal style
are the trademarks of Terry Boyle's refreshing folksy CD.
Backing him up is an impressive array of musicians,
mostly Nanaimo-based: John Forrest (bass), Bill Hicks
(drums), John Reischman (Mandolin), Keith Bennett
(harmonica), Sheila Miller-Bower (accordion), Camille
Miller (backup vocals), and Pat Coleman (guitar) who
also produced the CD. Terry plays rhythm guitar.
My faves include 'To The Beat of Drum', a classic
anti-war protest, with a haunting chordal drone and a
very catchy refrain. 'After Midnight' is a bluesy ballad
about a love gone wrong. I felt that Coleman could have
stretched a bit more guitar onto this track.
There are many influences which seem to pop up
throughout this CD, from Murray MacLaughlan to
Country Joe MacDonald. Instrumentally, 'Rider To The
Sea' has a feel slightly reminiscent of an early Al
Stewart. Terry's style is diverse.
The CD was recorded at Island Pacific Studio in
Nanaimo, engineered by Rick Salt who assisted Perry
Bracket with the mix. Contact Terry: (250) 754-4472 Back
VARIOUS BLUES ARTISTS: "LIVE AT RHINO'S"
Storman Norman Productions CDNRM002
Review by Barry Newman Oliver Conway did an excellent job of recording and
mixing this wonderful blues jam / showcase, presented
by CFOX's Storman Norman at Rhino's Bar & Grill in
Coquitlam (Sept 28, '97).
The list of veteran musicians is truly impressive and
their performances are all superb... Jim Byrnes, Gerry
Adolphe, Tim Hearsey, Mike West, Tom McKillup, Mike
Norman, Hans Stamer, Russ Marsland, Lovi Eli, Kenny
"Blues Boss" Wayne, Willie McCalder, Al Foreman,
Dave Vidal, Paul Kype, Doc Fingers, Brent Shindel...
Being a guitarist, the real high for me is listening to
Dave Vidal's brilliant lead solos, especially on 'Everyday
I Have the Blues'. Dave shined back in the heady days
of Victoria's 60's scene (with the band Morningstar), and
he just keeps getting better and better.
Congradulations to Storman for assembling and
producing an historic project of such mammoth rhino
proportions. The project was mastered by Paul Baker or
Baker Street.
For more info, contact: Storman Norman
Productions, 2095 Queens Ave, West Vancouver, BC,
V7V 2X8.
(TRIVIA QUIZ ... Which band has Billy Hicks and Gerry Adolphe not
worked in?) Back
HELMUT TEUNISSEN "Crushed Flowers"
contact: (250) 743-7499. helmut@cowichan.com
review by barry newman
This recording is a real pearl amidst the sea of CD's which have drifted my way lately.
Teunisson's vocal delivery is clear, soulful and sincere, pleasing to the ear and the heart.
With warm, nicely-spliced lyrics, solid song structure and straight-ahead performances by a
well-chosen team of backup players, "Crushed Flowers" is a mature masterpiece of melodic and
lyrical excellence.
My favourite tracks include 'Where Are You', from the viewpoint of a First Nations lad
hoping he and his sister can be rescued by the Raven from a residential school.
'Shuffles' is a tribute to an old character in Duncan who fell on hard times and managed
to maintain his dignity.
Teunissen's subject material and especially his vocal style remind me a bit of Steve
Forbert - sort of an even-keeled mix of despair and joy, if you will - the real thing!
In 1990, Billboard rated Helmut's entry 'My Best Friend' in top 10% of over 30,000
submissions!
Musicians include John Law, Michele Chiasson, Wayne Diggins, Bill Davidson, Mark
Merrett and Wane Summers. Nicely engineered by Lloyd Bachynski at Kutting Edge Studio and mastered by Mark Franklin at Media Magic. Back
GENE GROOMS: "Sooner or Later"
GSC 150201 tel:(250) 538-0300 email: gscdata@saltspring.com
review by Barry Newman
Gene Grooms, founder of the Saturday Blues Jam at Victoria's James Bay Inn has put
together an eclectically-spirited CD for those with unsatiable appetites for variety.
An impressive array of regional musicians to saute the sonics kept BC Ferries hoppin' to
Fulford & Vesuvius Bay: guitarists Neil Taylor, Al "Wammy-bar" Sabourin & Zak Cohen; bassists Dinos Grames, Doug "Buffalo" Saunders & Dave Roland;Phil Newns & Paul
Brosseau on keyboards; Allen Dookie on steel drums; violinist Marcelle Nokony;
percussionists Kevin Wilkie, Larry Wallace & Charlie "Super Smooth" Wade; Little Marty on
harp and singers Simone Grasky, Jane Stack and Kathy Stack ... whew!
Among my favourite tracks:
'Wake Up' ... Gene's plea for justice and social sanity, crisply-accented by Al's staccato guitar,
Charlie's restless rimshots and Dinos' prowling bass lines...in search of the lost ripchord on the
last parachute aboard "Flight # 666".
'Blues for the Nineties' ... with some tasty guitar licks by Neil, ends all too soon with a
jarring (but effective) pistol shot from the passing lane.
'Can't Get It Here' is an infectiously-funky number. Simone Grasky's enticing vocals tease
& interweave with Gene's in this mischievous number about two amorous dates armed with a
fistful of egos.
'Me & Jack Daniels' is Gene's classic blues song (the title says it all), which features
some tasty harp from Little Marty (Scott Lewis).
Mixed by Paul Brosseau & Dave Davies and mastered by Dave Davies at GSC Records
with the artist Gene Grooms co-producing. Back
OUT OF THE BLUE: "Out of The Blue"
Box 5543, Victoria, BC, V8R 6S4. npiercy@bc.sympatico.ca 474-1692
review by Barry Newman
Out Of The Blue's new CD offers a veritable feast of mature ballads and original R&B
masterpieces, delivered with style and guaranteed to please the most discriminating ear - as I
expected it would - with such an experienced team of top-calibre veterans.
My favourite track has gotta be 'Green Mountains', a haunting ballad by keyboardist /
vocalist Ross Shortreed. Saxman Brent Hutchinson provides a sweet (but rather short) solo here.
'Mister Deluxe' is another gem, a story which many of us older musicians are all too
familiar with... booze interfering with promising musical careers. A solid, R&B-based rocker with
a message.
Guitarist Mike Trepanier gets to rip out some tasty licks (and blues harp) in 'Sliding
Home'. A couple of shots of quality mescal around the studio might have helped to make this
scorching track a bit longer.
Throughout the CD, lead singer Sheldon McCurdy's soulful vocals shine... and no more so than in 'Keep On Walkin'. This rich, gospel-flavoured ballad really highlights Sheldon's superb vocal stylings.
'The Last Time' (by Shortreed) is a rocker - powerful, mercilessly to the point & executed
with precision.
'Freight Train' (also by Shortreed), is gentler - full of sunshine on a hot, dusty trudge to
some place where the grass is greener. Mike's reverbed slide and blues harp add just the right
texture.
Rhythm section performances by Norm Piercy on bass & Donny McGillivray on drums
are flawless throughout. Guest players and singers include Dan Trepanier, Lisa Ziebart, Jillian
Kowalko, Vince Pollitt & Hugh Barclay.
Engineered by Dennis Ferbey at Canadian Concepts and mastered by Craig Waddell
at Gotham City Studios in Vancouver, "Out Of The Blue" is a surefire bet for your listenin' or
dancin' pleasure. Back
AUNTIE KATE: "snapshots"
QFE Records c/o: 627 Manchester Rd. Victoria, BC. V8T 2N9 tbop@ direct.ca
Website: www.geocities.com/BourbonStreet/Delta/4441/
review by Monte Nordstrom
Although my favorite moments of recorded music generally originate from studio
wizardry, I feel the true mark of a BAND is made from a "live" source. The latest offering from
Victoria's Queen of funky R&B, Auntie Kate (AKA Kate Roland) is a "snapshot" of a HARD
working band captured at the top of their game, that is: Cooking over a steaming hot audience of joyous writhing dancers. With longtime stalwart Tom Bowler on guitar & vocals, Auntie Kate serves up the grits & groceries with Muchos da Gusto!
From the appetizer "Better Than Good", which has been produced as a video (watch for
it on CMT), right through to the dessert choruses of "Bayou Blood" you will be energized by a
deliciously cohesive selection of tunes.
Recorded at Nanaimo's Queens Hotel by Island Pacific Studio, engineered by Rick Salt,
mixed by Shaun McCracken, and mastered by Greg Pauker featuring the "Uncles of Funk" with
Buffalo Saunders on bass; Phil Wipper on drums; Joel Spillette on keys & a groovin' horn
section consisting of Tina Jones, Brock Miller, Kyle Burrows & Colin Perry.
Listen up, you're going to be soul satisfied.
My favorite tune on the collection is "Storm Warning" & I'm warning you not to miss
seeing Auntie Kate at the next opportunity. Until then run out & find; or order from the above
contact info, your own copy of "snapshots", a well done document of Victoria's own undisputed
Queen of da Blues! Back
NANCY RUTH: "Nancy Ruth"
Roca Records NR22 - www.nancyruth.com
review by Barry Newman
This CD is packed with a world-class whallop - from which ever way you look at it - and
Nancy Ruth is an immaculate singer, destined for greatness.
Nancy's operatic background is quite evident on many of the tracks. Her formidable vocal
control offers quick, effortless shifts from sweet & soothing to intense, dramatic bursts of kinetic
delivery.
There's almost a middle eastern flavour to the opening rockers, with amazing electric
violin solos interweaving with rapid salvoes of scorchin' lead guitar.
My favourite tracks include:
'Raging On' - gentle & articulate verses interwoven with gutsy bridges and
craftily-crescendoed choruses make this an instant hit. Nancy's soaring vocals are nicely
complimented
with harmonies provided by metal queen Lee Aaron.
Ghost-like bass lines (courtesy of Miles Fox Hill) swirl beneath Nancy's ethereal
keyboards and her soulful and sustained vocals in 'No Talk of Love'.
'Sweet Serenade' with a bouncing, catchy refrain, is one of the lighter tracks destined
perhaps for M.O.R. airplay, on this otherwise moody and complex CD. Harris Van Berkel (guitars) is a major performer on most of the tracks. Randall Stohl
and Jack Duncan aptly handle the formidable percussion work. Violinist Mark Ferris and
mandolinist John Reischman add yet more magic. Co-producer Nancy Ruth played keyboards and wrote all the songs.
Recorded, mixed n' mastered by Rick Kilburn, XNTRIK Productions.
Watch out Barbara Streisand !! Back
FISCHER & LEE: "Rise"
FLCD98001 tel: 413-3173
review by Ray Luxemburg
Fischer & Lee may call themselves "folkies"; but from the evidence of their highly
enjoyable debut CD 'Rise', the label only distracts attention away from the melting pot of styles
their original tunes offer. Cheryl Fischer (vocals & mandolin) and Karen Lee (vocals & guitar) make up this
acoustic duo. Cheryl has a bright, sassy voice that cuts through the tunes with vigor and
passion. Her mandolin provides clips of rhythm, melodic motifs and solos. Karen's voice is fuller,
massaging each note. As a player, her guitar is the rhythm section of the band. She picks and
strums, driving the structures of the songs mightily while adding bass lines, sly fills and tasty
solos.
With Valdy heading up the production team (and providing dabs of bass here and there);
the sound is clear and clean, the stringed instruments sounding full yet transparent. The voices
sing solo, in harmony, and sometimes in counter-point; lending a bit of variety. Outside of the
bass, there are no additional instruments and only a few vocal overdubs. This is what Fischer &
Lee really sound like... and a good and musical sound it is!
Seven of the CD's ten songs are original tunes. The title track is an anthem of sorts,
expressing a desire to experience life fully and to excel - "She wants to run and fly
She wants to laugh and cry
She wants to rise in her world
In her world, rise... Rise"
And when the vocalists sing the word "rise", their harmonies ascend powerfully.
There are few love songs on Rise ('Blessed Is The Day' is an ap-pealing romantic
fantasy). Most of these songs deal with the singer coming to terms with the world around her, or
herself. 'Falling Down The Rock' is a perfect example: "When I was a child, it was taught to me... Work hard, live right and you will succeed
Well every thing I have worked for, I have found... They are the things that now tie me down"
The hard driving minor key progression expresses frustration, anger and a new
determination. This is an exceptional song.
Another tune that really impresses me is 'Beacon In The Night', where the composers
have grafted a sea shanty verse with a gospel chorus... it's heartfelt and it works perfectly.
Rise's finale is a cover of the old soul tune 'Midnight Train to Georgia'. It is a love song,
and a brave choice for such a small group of musicians (Valdy again sits in on bass and
harmony vocals). To their credit, Fischer & Lee bring it off nicely; and when they hit those "woo
hoos" in the chorus, their joy is palpable and infectious.
Most duos these days will record with a full rhythm section, overdub extra guitar and
vocal tracks, even add strings. This may be done in hopes of attracting commercial radio airtime.
Unfortunately, much of the audience expects these elaborate productions. However, Rise has
an intimacy and charm all of its own; and repeated listenings enhance the enjoyment of Fischer
& Lee's music, convincing the listener that there's nothing missing here at all... Back
THE WALTER BODEGA BAND:
Box 5055, Victoria, BC V8R 6N3 (250) 598-8734
review by Monte Nordstrom
This self-titled Cd of a 1997 University of Victoria performance shows the Walter Bodega
Band in the warm ambience of the Recital hall. Their jigs, reels & ballads are best captured "live"
& the concert setting shows the gang in fine form as they roll through a relaxed set of originals &
covers.
My favorites here are the opening instrumental, 'The Sugarfoot Congress', 'Dark Eyes' &
'Galloping Goose/Beef to the Heel'. I just wish they'd included more songs on the disc. With 8
songs running just over 25 minutes, its over too soon.
The Walter Bodega Band consists of Clark Brendon on standup bass, Russ Godfrey
on mandolin, Mike Nicholls on percussion, Jonty Parker-Jervis on violin and Bruce Rathie on
guitar, and all of them sing.
More often than not, you can find this acoustic Celtic / traditional /
folk ensemble providing the musical score for the boisterous bedlam of the barscene. & they do
provide good tunes by which to hoist a pint, b'y! Check out the listings to find where the Walter
Bodega Band is next performing & you can take home a CD of this fine local group for your own
enjoyment.Back
COLTON McLEOD "Lasso The Moon"
coltonmcleod@hotmail.com
review by Barry Newman
Definitely one of the most powerful CD's I've heard this year, Colton McLeod's "Lassoo
The Moon" is packed with enough ammunition to ventilate a bomb shelter in the Persian Gulf...
or in New Mexico... depending on which way the wind is blowin'.
Armed with incendiary lyrics and executed with dynamite arrangements, Colton's style is
somewhat similar in feel to Bob Seger, except it's loaded with more melody, more texture & more
beef.
Tasty lead guitar lines embellish the keyboard-driven rhythms which feature solid drums
and bass. All instruments and vocals performed by Colton and Paul Laine, who produced this formidable project.
Picking my favourite tracks was tough... there's too many good songs on this CD (12 in
all) to decide. The first 7 tracks and the last 5 are all exceptional !!
"Lassoo The Moon" was recorded & mixed at Pacific Coast Studios in Parksville;
mastered by Mark Franklin at Media Magic in Victoria. Back
KEN HAMM: "Galvanized"
North Track Recordings - khamm@islandnet.com - Festival Distribution: 1-800-633-8282
review by Monte Nordstrom
If you didn't get the pun in the title, "Galvanized" refers to the steel-bodied guitar that Ken
favours so well in his folk/roots/blues performances & on his many recordings which are
available from the above contact info.
This outing features Ken's covers of classic Delta blues primarily of a
bottleneck nature, played with faithful fervour & showcasing Ken's prowess at the idiom. Of
course it wouldn't be Ken if it didn't have a couple curve balls.
Mixed among the hollers & shouts from Robert Johnson, Charly Patton, Leadbelly,
McKinley Morganfield, etc, are plucky renditions of Dicky Betts' "Pony Boy" & Bob Dylan's "From
a Buick Six" & they are not out of place in the context. Ken's acoustic versions of Willie Dixon's
Chicago blues classics also show that this material works well on both levels.
You'll get your blue money's worth too, with 20 cuts on the disc. Engineered by Gerry
Paquette at Raincoast Sound, produced by Pat Coleman and mastered by Perry Barrett, this
album represents a guitar summit of a fine southeast Vancouver Island talent. Get Galvanized! Back
ROY FORBES: "Crazy Old Moon"
AKA Records: aka@direct.ca - Distributor: Festival
review by Monte Nordstrom
This self-produced gem from Roy Forbes was engineered & mixed by Rolf Hennemann,
Roy's longtime studio stalwart. As usual, their combined efforts have yielded a superbly
appointed collection of easy-going rootsy material from one of BC's best & most consistant
singer/songwriters.
The disc features a veritable who's who of Vancouver session veterans, IE: Drummeister
Jerry Adolphe; Bassist Miles Hill; Percussionist, Salvador Ferraras & "Hometown Band"
alumni: Doug Edwards, Claire Lawerence & Robbie King.
Melodic embellishments are provided by John Reischman on mandolin, Brad Turner
on trumpet & Calvin Vollrath on fiddle. Cindy Church applies a sweet harmony to one of my
my favorite cuts, "No One to Talk to But the Moon".
Other standout tunes are "If I Were A Raven" written for his mother & "Im on the Edge"
which has a darkly muted trumpet jazzing up the acoustic grooviness.
Roy's keening vocal style tugs at the heartstrings as he strolls through
this countryfied collection of material & I reckon that it stands right up there with the John Hiatt/
Lyle Lovett school of tunesmithing.
Way to go Roy! Back
BURNING PLOW: "Breaking Ground"
1-206-547-3080 email: burningplow@seanet.com
review by Monte Nordstrom
Burning Plow is a consortium of acoustic players featuring John Rodgers on mandolin &
vocals, Larry Lawrence on guitar & vocals; Clinton Ryder on bass; Phil Wipper on drums;
Paul Elliot on fiddle; Kelly Koebel on vocals & Randy Neal on guitar.
It was nicely produced by Larry (Lonesome Hounddog) Lawrence in Victoria &
showcases the band performing original material from the New Grass/Folk Rock mold along the
lines of Perth County Conspiracy, Sodbusters or an unplugged New Riders of the Purple Sage.
"Breaking Ground" bops along in this rural mode with both main vocalists using a John
Hartford or David Bromberg style of offhanded delivery. "Northern Lights" has a very nice
interlude featuring the standup bass & mandolin to good effect. The song "Ruby Ridge" has a
reactionary reading to it. Idolizing outlaws is a great folk tradition, I suppose.
The best vocal performance on the recording is a pretty song called
"Forever & a Day", which should be plugged for radio play, IF radio were
sympathetic to roots music. The album ends with "T.V. Oh T.V.", a Prinish waltz with some fine
fiddle playing by Paul Elliot.
If bluegrass mandolin picking & acoustic roots music in the New Grass style is your bag,
try this release from Burning Plow. Back
DUKE ROBILLARD: "Stretchin'Out-Live"
Stony Plain Records SPCD 1250
review by Monte Nordstrom
This album was recorded live at Richard's On Richards on November 26,1995 & features
Duke Robillard leading a smokin' quartet with Marty Ballou on bass; Marty Richards on drums
& Gordon Beadle on tenor & baritone saxophones. The group was doing their "warm-up" set for
legendary Bluesman, Jimmy Witherspoon, with whom they were on a west coast tour.
The result of this particular night was recorded for Stony Plain executive producer,
Holger Petersen's CBC "Saturday Night Blues" show. It turned out so well, Duke & Holger
decided to release it as a CD & I'm glad they did.
Duke's reputation as a supportive guitarist & soloist was forged in the
post-Jimmie Vaughan, Fabulous Thunderbirds & since his various incursions in the
Blues-friendly environs of CANADA, he has become a mainstay at Stony Plain Records. When
you hear this album you'll know why!
In the succinct, to-the-point atmosphere of the studio, Duke is a force to be reckoned
with his incisive style that is drenched in hardwon authority.
In the relative freedom of a warm-up spot, Duke & the boys let it all out & lean into their
parts with attitude & the joy of performing for an audience cruisin' for a bluesin'.
Outstanding tracks are: the extended work-out of Albert Collins' 'Dyin' Flu', T-Bone Walker's
'Don't Leave Me Baby' & Duke's own 'Too Hot to Handle' & 'Tell Me Why'. If you like "live &
lively"
Blues, Jump & Swing check out Duke & the boys 'Stretchin' Out-Live'! Back
BABE GURR: "A Drink of Life"
JLS-1063 (604) 736-4939 - jlsmgmt@lightspeed.bc.ca
review by Barry Newman
Warm and relaxed vocal stylings and brightly-textured arrangements make this CD an
excellent choice for around the fireplace at Xmas time. Young & old alike will enjoy this
delightfully friendly recording, somewhat reminiscent of a laidback Pretenders record.
Some richly-inventive guitarwork and chordings by Luke Doucet and smooth keyboard & synthesized percussion by Dan Kearley. The nifty bass lines (especially on 'Feelin Fine') are courtesy of Martin Walton. Back up vocals are by Neil James Harnett.
Carol "Babe" Gurr, now based in Vancouver, began her musical career in Victoria in the
mid-90's. She has since performed at numerous major festivals across Canada and the Pacific
northwest. 'A Drink of Life' (her 3rd CD) has stayed in the Indie Top-5 at HMV for over three
months, no mean feat for an "unsigned" artist.
This vibrant CD was produced, recorded, mixed by Dale Penner at Greenhouse Studios;
2nd engineer Dave Ashton. Mastered by Brett Zihali at Metalworks, Toronto. Back
DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS: 'Blue Plate Special'
Stony Plain Records: SPCD 1246
Review by Barry Newman
Anyone who dug BLOOD SWEAT & TEARS and that
band's remarkable singer, David Clayton-Thomas, will
most definitely dig this excellent blues-anchored CD.
'Blue Plate Special' offers a fine menu of superbly-served blues classics and David's original
tunes.
My favourite tracks include the opener, Albert Collins'
'Too Many Dishes' which features some beautiful lead
guitar work (either Larry DeBari or Andy Aledort). David
delivers Albert's timeless poem of domestic mayhem
and mistrust with conviction and credibility. Ray Charles'
'Hard Times' (recently popularized by Clapton) is another
gem of wisdom which David has nailed down.
'We Were The Children' is an original which focuses
on the faults of the boomer generation and the general
belief that we could have done more toward solving the
world's problems.
The monster horn section trademark of BS&T is less
prevalent here...but don't fret... a very capable brass
section consisting of: Steve Guttman (trumpet), Charley
Gordon (trombone), Dave Reikenbery (trumpet) & Craig
Johnson (lead trumpet) is featured on most tracks
(arranged by Guttman & Gordon). The rhythm section
featuring Mike DuClos (bass), Jonathon Peretz (drums)
and keyboardists (Doug Riley, Matt King & Glenn "Mac"
McLelland) provides Mr Clayton-Thomas with the expert
platform he deserves.
As for David Clayton-Thomas, his vocal delivery is as
accurate and powerful as ever... no mean feat for a man
who has sung serious blues & jazz/rock at international
concerts and clubs for well-over thirty years.
'Blue Plate Special' is a long-overdue and
exceptionally high-quality CD from a legendary artist who
isn't just riding on fame to catch folk's attention. This
CD is a lovingly-balanced capture of blues classics and
blues-inspired originals which most certainly won't gather
ANY dust in my collection. Back
DENNIS LAKUSTA: 'Run With You'
DJL 001
Review by Barry Newman
Formerly a railway worker and a cab driver, Lakusta
(now 50) bought his first guitar at a Vancouver
pawnshop on an impulse when in his early twenties. His
melodic songwriting reflects a vast wealth of experiences
and inspirations - being on the road, his Metis roots, the
late Lenny Breau, damage to the environment, a friend
who succumbed to breast cancer - with very subtle &
effective chord changes and beautiful lyrical phasing.
'Wonders' is Dennis' tribute to nature (in particular,
BC's Nicola Valley) which features very sweet and
haunting chants, as does 'Let The River Run', a lament
about chemical contamination of our rivers & streams.
Musicians include Ron Bankley (lead guitar & harp),
Tammy Fassaert (bass), Nancy Taylor (backup vocals),
Doug Thornton (fiddle & viola). Produced by Dennis with
Ron Bankley, recorded & mixed at Big Blue Fish Studios
and mastered by Don Blegg at Pacific North Studios.
Dennis Lakusta's CD is a wonderfully warm and
soothing delight... perfect medicine for the end of a
hectic day. Contact: dlakusta@canada.com
Back
DENNIS LAKUSTA: 'Suusa's Room'
DJL 003
review by Barry Newman
One of Canada's best-kept secrets, Dennis Lakusta is a giant of a songwriter and his new CD is certainly packed with plenty of unpretentious punch.
My favourite tracks include "Flying Things" (a gently-woven lament on the loss of close friends); "Sixteen" (an account of tragedies experienced by the Chemainus Indian Band);
"Value Village Shuffle" (a tongue-in-cheek tribute to shopping for bargains... and hiding the price tag); and "Blackie" (a haunting ballad which reminds us how precious things can "slip between our fingers").
Lakusta's sometimes-melancholy songs are gently-blessed with melodic magic and brightness which appeal to the child in all of us and carry a trademark of timelessness.
Warm production and presentation by Dennis Lakusta (vocals & guitar) with Ron Bankley (guitars), Saskia Monroe (bass), Lester Quitzau (guitars, harmonica), Bonnie Gregory (violin, viola)... mixed & mastered by Dan Cherwoniak.
Contact (306) 376-2220 dlakusta@canada.com
or: www.ecn.ab.ca/dlakusta/index.html
Back
CHERELLE JARDINE: 'Bleeding Water'
review by barry newman
Drifting between light rock and ethereal ballads, this easy-listening gem is packed with softly-barbed hooks and melodic forays into the urban psyche... with a gentle mist of 70's pop etched-in for good measure.
The songs by Cherelle & gifted collaborating writer John Peacox provide a plethora of creamy treats on this dreamy, radio-friendly CD, in particular "Bleeding Water", "Floating" and my favourite track... the seductively-haunting "Within You", a lushly-textured, maturely mood-driven ballad (do I detect a hint of CSNY in that instrumental break?) which ably captures Cherelle's finer vocal dynamics... a song I just want keep repeating.
Musicianship on this CD is superlative: Robbie Steininger, Gerry Adophe, David Sinclair, Steve Hall... tastefully mixed, mastered, engineered and co-produced (with Jardine) by Sidney Perez.
Available at most mainland HMV's, A&B's, Sam's or: www.cherellejardine.com. Back
STEVE KARAGIANIS: 'So Long Velvet Rust'
review by barry newman
A distinctively-unique acoustic artist with a trippy and slightly melancholy signature, Mr Karagianis will soundly capture the busiest soul upon one's first or second hearing.
His relaxed, yet articulate vocal stylings, hovering above a distinct, percussively-perfect presentation on his acoustic guitar are normally the domain of some regional acoustic blues players I've been fortunate to hear in this neck of the woods. Steve's guitar picking is also exceptionally sharp and accurate.
Lyrically dealing with spiritual, environmental and romantic issues, this CD effortlessly surpasses similar attempts by other artists I've recently heard.
Exceptionally crisp, yet warm presentation throughout, with superb performances by rhythmic masters Rich Lang, Clinton Ryder & Niel Golden... produced by Larry Lawrence, mixed by One (at Zero Gravity) and mastered by Mark Franklin (Media Magic).
Contact Steve: (604) 682-3269 ext # 6160. Back
RON CAMPBELL: 'A Skinny Old White Man Sings The Blues'
review by Terry Dares
Ron Campbell's CD pays homage to those who went before and blends the blues with his conviction to do justice to the most sacred of the blues stylings... the Mississippi Delta Blues. The guy has balls, you gotta say that! To present the blues as a solo act takes chutzpah and Ron has all the confidence he needs.
Including five originals, the fifteen songs on this set showcase the varied talents of this Powell River lad. Robert Johnson's "Phonograph Blues", Brownie McGhee's "Born With the Blues" and Billie Holiday's "God Bless the Child" gives you an idea of the range of his commitment. Ron's title cut has him on dobro, guitar, harmonica, drums and vocals... all at the same time... live in the studio with no overdubs.
Other originals "Doctor Love" and "Tax Man Blues" are proof that his wife Maureen invested wisely in that dobro.
Fine measures of humility, conviction and the talent to pull it off, are to his credit. Let's keep this guy busy. (604) 487-4492 or surf him via www.aisl.bc.ca/raca/ron.htm
Back
SHILO ZYLBERGOLD: 'Welcome to Bedspring Island'
review by barry newman
... a down-to-earth and witty collection of social statements about values on Salt Spring Island and places less clear-cut, fleeced or defined, Shilo doesn't mince his words.
The opener "537-653" is a cleverly-crafted tongue-in-cheeker helpful in identifying those with more effluence and prestige... in the vein of Shel Silverstein perhaps. Other songs artfully deal with ugly super-ferries, new-age values, sudden romance and funky diners.
Lots of top-notch musicianship (Laurent Boucher, John Law...) and solid production by Ramesh Meyers, who also plays most of the guitars, bass and keyboards.
Overall, an exceptionally-witty package of insights into life aboard a vibrantly-rusty ark. I like it. Shilo's contact: (250) 653-9268 or http://salt-spring.bc.ca/howlingmoon
Back
WYCKHAM PORTEOUS: 'sexanddrinking'
review by barry newman
A lyrical genius, Porteous' style lurks between Dylan, Tom Waits and a bar you might not necessarily want to take yer true soulmate(s) to. It's difficult to determine if Wyckham is the culprit, the victim or the storyteller on some of the songs... but that doesn't matter... after a "sleeve" of beer (or a "crotch" of tequila), Porteous mirrors life as it is... full of mystery, magic, broken promises and empties.
The opening title track (brings to mind Zappa's 'Wino Man'), is a tongue-in-cheeks monologue woven over a funky stripper-friendly rhythm. The foreplay found here is but a tease in comparison to the artist's poetic intensity found in subsequent tracks.
The climax might be found in 'Feel Alright', an in-your-face rocker alluring to a quest for love, inner peace and fullfillment, splattered with philosophical stains and spilled visions.
My favourite cut is 'Get Happy', a sarcastic anthem to hard times and desperation "Come on get happy, you got a roof, you got a bed, you might as well start laughing, there's a joke up ahead..."
Wyckham plays acoustic guitar (some lead, percussion, harp n' keys) on this CD; John Ellis is lead guitarist; Pat Steward the main percussionist; and Rob Becker plays bass. John Stoltz, Dyhan Roberts and Tom Carter also contribute their talents. John Ellis is the principle engineer/ producer.
If you've ever hucked a wine bottle at an old TV set, you'll like 'sexanddrinking' (if the bottle wasn't empty, though...).
At stores now or: www.cordovabay.com Back
DAVID GOGO: 'Halfway to Memphis'
review by barry newman
The blues guitar on H2M is electric... and it's obvious that Gogo has paid the hydro and paid his dues.
A nicely-rounded mix of blues (4 songs by Gogo), H2M also includes classics by McKinley Morganfield, Don Van Vliet, Willie Nelson, Willie Dixon, Eddie Hinton, John Lee Hooker, Chester Burnett...
'Halfway to Memphis' is an exceptionally-tasty and mature collage of steel strings bent, stretched and slid upon with artistic & emotional precision. Gogo's vocal stylings are smokin' too... the conviction is both intense and ear-friendly. He doesn't mince strings or wank with words. He's got their breaking point nailed down, abusing only the callouses on his fingertips and larynx.
Gogo's lyrics on the title track are right on the mark. He churns out some amazing slide work on Muddy Waters' 'Rollin and Tumblin'; relinquishes his guitar to the stratosphere on Jame's Brown's 'This is a Man's World'; and I'm sure I can hear Hendrix's fury in 'Soul Fever' !!
Recorded & mixed by Rick Salt at Island Pacific Studios, 'Halfway to Memphis' was produced by Gogo and features Bill Hicks (drums), Brendan Hedley & Rick Hopkins (keyboards), Camille Miller (backup vocs), Todd Sacerty (bass) and Gerry Barnum (blues harp). What a line-up !!
I dig this CD even more than Gogo's 'Dine Under The Stars' (which I consider the best live blues/rock CD I've heard).
Available at: www.cordovabay.com
An excellent "hard-fusion" CD which will appeal to guitarophiles, "Audity" is sure to blow a few stereo speakers at rabbit hutches throughout colleges across the nation. If you dig Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Deep Purple... and sudden bursts of tasty acoustic guitar and tempo changes to mess with yer disco-fragmented mind, Audity will wear out the needle on yer Sanyo.
First and last tracks are my faves (the latter is kinda hidden at the end).
Guitarist Diego Tronca is the prime suspect behind this cool project, faithfully backed by drummer Steve Sawatsky, bassist Bruce Davies and the expert engineering and production genius of Scott Hend#rson at Sea of Shit (S.O.S.) Studios. Flawless mastering by Mark Franklin at Media Magic. Available at A&B, HMV, Turn Table (Victoria). www.diegoband.com
DAMN THE DIVA: 'Flow & Steer'
Favourite 45 Records 76272 06452
review by Barry Newman
Exceptionally-insightful lyrics, clever chord structure
and excellent production combine to make DAMN THE
DIVA's "Flow & Steer" a classic CD for your aural
scrutiny and pleasure. This is very trippy and melodic
material, loaded with nifty riffs & textures, and a
disarming array of sensitive & cutting lyrics.
'Beam Me Out' is the hook-laden opener, with
splashes of imagery that leave the listener thoroughly
satisfied & befuddled - sort of like finding a rusty switch
blade beneath your ostrich-feathered pillow after a
relaxing orgasm.
'Nova Cain' is one of my faves... a heartfelt stab at
certain destructive powers that be. Musically, it reminds
me of some track off an old Spirit LP or the Beatles'
white album, as does 'Armed Together' and 'Gravy'.
Other tunes like 'Mozart' offer Kevin MacKenzie's
soaring falsetto (not unlike a youthful Roy Orbison). All
band members sing backup: Jerry Wong (guitar - brilliant
effects & feedback control), Tom Christiansen (bass)
and Jamie Haufmann (drums).
I dig this CD... too bad I gotta give it back to Maxx.
DT Diva's website: www.nextlevel.com.damnthediva Back
CAMILLE MILLER: 'She Knows'
review by barry newman
One of the more precious signs of intelligent life which have impacted upon Cosmic's mailbox recently, 'She Knows' is more of a comet than a mere meteor. Camille Miller's timeless CD gets perpetually-spun on my stereo... with morning coffee... or with daylight-saving nightcap(s).
The hook-laden opener, 'I Always Will', conjures warm memories of high school days and flames, geared mayhaps to romantic fools one-third my age. It's a get-positive pop gem geared for good days and simpler times we shouldn't forget.
'I Love You' is a brilliantly-honest portrait of precious aspirations, wonderfully-presented by Camille's impeccable vocal delivery.
The boppy 'Sugar Mountain' would have been a Top-Ten pop hit in '68. That is then... this was now. With the mellow innocence of a Karen Carpenter tune, the bridge suddenly swoops in with a vocal passage packed with scorching Annie Lennox-type orgasmics. This song just keeps on going through my head... and not just because I crank the volume up whenever I play it.
'Intensities' is a hauntingly-romantic testament of the human condition in a world which went awry many moons ago. A noble mist of mandolins and violins accent the spirit of the artist in this melodically-perfect poem of life... "time stands still".
Produced & engineered by Doug Elliot; co-mixed by Nick Haggar, who also co-wrote the songs with Camille.
Musicians include Doug Elliot, Camille Miller, Nick Haggar, Tina Jones, Craig Northey, Pat Steward.
Since her early busking days in Victoria during the early '90s, Camille Miller has been one the Island's busiest singer/songwriters, working with numerous and diverse musical projects: Man With The Yellow Hat (Rocktoria '95 winners); Nanaimo-based Doctor Tongue; Wunderbread; 'Things People See' (a CD produced by Rick Salt).
A couple of years ago, Camille joined up with Ozone (Vancouver) and spent almost a year doing 6-nighter house-gigs in Bahrain and Dubai. This month kicks off a Canada/US west coast tour to promote 'She Knows'.
info: www.camillemillermusic.com Back
GERRY BARNUM
'Pickin' Up The Pieces'
review by barry newman
A refreshingly down-to-earth writer and a superb solo
musician with an amazingly-articulate voice to deliver his
compositional expertise, Barnum elopes with the true grit
of the blues and tethers it tightly to softer ballads and
folkier wanderings... all with a humongous heartful of soul.
This CD nicely captures the diversity of Barnum's rich
delivery and features many of Vancouver Island's ablest
musicians... all mixed by Paul Laine and mastered by
Scott Littlejohn.
My personal favourites are Gerry's solo tracks: 'My
Hometown', 'Time In Heaven' and the glowing guitar n'
blues-harped instrumental 'Tres Jolie', a cosmos-friendly
foray into the blessed unknown.
Nothing quite matches the magic of hearing Barnum's
sweat-soaked solo performance at a live venue... with
2000-watts of front-end to grasp his amazing and
comprehensive attack on strings, slide, footstomp and
vocal rasps n' highs (Barnum has shared the stage with
John Hammond, Lyle Lovett, Dwight Yoakam, John
Mayall, Los Lobos)... but if yer stuck in a bachelor
apartment complex between payday and a place called
Paldi... this CD will help lift your spirits.
Contact: gerrybarnum@hotmail.com or 1-250-248-3326. Back
ROSE RANGER
'Replies'
review by barry newman
With lots of hook-laden, FM-friendly tunes and
powerful performance by Rose Ranger & the cream of
Vancouver's jazz n' blues-based rockers (Robbie
Steininger, Robbie King, Jerry Adophe, Brad Turner, Tom
Colclough, Randy Raine Reush...) 'Replies' is stubbornly
resisting eviction from my CD-changer.
I guess the track called 'Fly' (both versions) initially got
me wired... with Rose Ranger's sambuca-sweet voice
spiraling thru its ethereal chorus. After just one listen to
this passage, I was hopelessly snagged... like a hoary
marmot to a chunk of rare cheddar.
I also dug 'Under The Moonlight', 'Stay' and the
haunting 'He', a moody jazz piece which captures Ranger's
effortless transition from delicate rasp to fine falsetto.
Produced, arranged, engineered & mixed by Craig
Zurba. Mastered by Craig Waddell at Gotham City.
Hair & Makeup by Sally Barnes / Heather McLellan.
DAVID GOGO
'Skeleton Key'
review by barry newman
Gogo's consistently-tasty and ever- inventive guitar
work is always a treat to hear and 'Skeleton Key'
unleashes even more blues wizardry from this amazing
artist.
'Stay Away From My Home', 'Reap What You Sow',
'Personal Jesus' and a trippy version of Curtis Mayfield's
'Fool For You' (a DigiPak bonus track) are among my
faves here.
But Gogo really says it all, in the very Hendrixy 'It
Don't Make Sense'... a convincing critique of corrupt &
heartless power-mongers in today's brave new world
mess. Gogo rocks the free world... and learns us all proper
in the process.
Superb backup & guest spots by Tod Sacerty, Billy
Hicks, Brendan Hedley, Rick Hopkins, Gerry Barnun,
Melisa Devost, Pierre Komen, Earle Gibson, Kyle Burrows
& Tina Jones.
Yet another brilliantly-assembled recording (co-produced with Gogo) by Nanaimo's Rick Salt at Island Pacific Studio.
