The disc is a great gumbo of blues, jazz, soul and more.
Along with 9 great original compositions, Andre and his large band performed an interesting soul-filled version of Neil Young's Heart of Gold. He really made it his own.
Hamilton's Andre Bisson shows growth with each new release and the tradition's alive and well with his latest fabulous album, Latchford. The incredible songwriting continues from the previous offerings. On top of that, Andre also now manages to add a bit more of a singer/songwriter, almost folky vibe. There's even a bit of country thrown in the mix. Without sacrificing his trademark funk and soul, the Bluesman has once again expanded his sound to new heights.
Justin Sawickihas opted for a folkier, bluesier Americana sound on his sophomore self-titled album and the transformation is amazing! The talented Hamilton singer/songwriter infuses the countrified melodies with a modern, almost alternative aura.
Justin doesn't shy away from either the traditional or the contemporary. Choosing elements that fit each song - the selection always works extremely well. The album runs the emotional gamut as well: good time rhythms share space with heartbreak, melancholia and more.
Joining Justin on this musical excursion is Dan Rodrigues (guitars), Eric Thachuk(bass), Andrew Barbisan (drums, vocals, lap steel), and Erin Aurich (fiddle). They help flesh out this wonderful sound.
The physical CD should be coming out soon and you can pick it up at hisCD Release at the Artword Artbar in Hamilton on Friday December 11, 2015. It can also be downloaded now via cdbabyoriTunes.
Ophelia Syndrome are one of the best indie bands around and their latest incredible CD, North Sea shows you why. The Hamilton group craft their songs well and know how to give each track a unique spin.
From the livelier numbers (Love Me Right, North Sea) to the beautiful slower tunes (The Hope, Not Tonight), the gang know how to imbue every one with a sense of energy and soul. Using both modern and old school sounds, they manage to create something very worthwhile.
Produced by the band along with by Kori Popand Dan Rodrigues, this album will stir you emotionally and physically.
CDs and downloads can be purchased through their Bandcamppage. Other download options include iTunesand eMusic.
Some albums escape our radar, so occasionally we'll be catching up with some mini-reviews!
The band's 2011 release, All Things Forgottenalso has songs with their own personalities. Many of the tracks have a jazzy feel but the Ophelia Syndrome throw in some classical, rock and pop elements in for good measure. You really should check this one out.