Not only did I turn 21 this week, I also listened to a whole bunch of music, let’s talk about it!
General thoughts & listening habits
Listened to a looooot of Jesse Welles and Cowboy Junkies this week, was just in one of those moods, y’know?
I can’t say I’m annoyed about that tbh, they’ve got some good stuff.
Ooh, I also streamed an insane amount of Simon & Garfunkel and REM as well. I don’t know if you guys are getting the sense of what kinda music I tend to gravitate to by this point lol. If not by now, you’ll certainly get the sense soon enough.
With all that out of the way, let’s talk about some of the music, shall we?
Top 5 albums of the week
I only actually listened to 11 albums this week (so far), so this isn’t saying much, but shut up idc; this was a really good week for music. It’s been a long time since the avg album quality has been so high in my journey through music.
5. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Creedence Clearwater Revival: 8.25
Starting strong this week with an 8.25 (yes, to all you RYM lurkers out there, my scores will look high, but if an album is genuinely below a 5/10 in terms of quality, I’ll just stop listening before I’m through the first song). This album completes my journey of making my way through CCR’s discography (unless I decide to venture into Mardi Gras that is), and while it’s not my favourite of their albums, it certainly packs a strong bluesy punch.
Honestly there really isn’t a bad song on this thing, typical of Fogerty’s work, but the stand out has to be the fantastic cover of I Put a Spell on You, very powerful and emotive. I’m not sure it’s my favourite version of the song (Nina Simone & Arthur Brown’s versions I think might be just a bit better), but it’s certainly a thrill.
4. Demons (Nomad Series Vol. 2) – Cowboy Junkies: 8.5
What could be said about Margo Timmins voice that hasn’t already been said? Beautiful, haunting, and mesmerizing. This album finds her and the rest of the band fully in their element covering the late Vic Chestnutt. I must admit, I’ve been very impressed so far working my way through their modern discography, not many 80s bands have done nearly as well, but the Cowboys here have captured a truly timeless sound that is a pleasure to the ears.
I will admit, I didn’t like the first song on this album (Wrong Piano), but tracks like Flirted With You All My Life, Square Room, and the biting/cruel West of Rome more than make up for a relatively weak start.
3. Dare! – The Human League: 8.5
You know, much like many casual music fans today, I used to think of this band as just those folks who did Don’t You Want Me.
I’m not sure I’ve ever been happier to be proved wrong, Dare! is a fantastic showcase of the fun of Synthpop the whole through! From the almost Kraftwerkian opening track (The Things that Dreams are Made of) to the end, it’s a nonstop thrill ride.
I listened to this one during a workout, highly recommend. Whether you’re deep in the genre, or just looking to try it out, this album is a must-listen.
2. The Concert in Central Park – Simon & Garfunkel: 8.5
What’s not to love? The greatest folk duo performing (most of) their greatest songs with a talented backing band. My only real gripe with this album is the fact that they didn’t do my favourite S&G song (Hazy Shade of Winter).
1. The Way I Feel – Gordon Lightfoot: 8.5
I always hate when I get into artists only after they die. This one stings especially because I got into his catalogue only a few months after it happened.
An incredibly consistent folk artist, every song on this album is packed to the brim with emotion: Walls, Home From the Forest, Canadian Railroad Trilogy (Gord’s Gold version clears though). This man just knew how to spin you a tale of love and loss, hope and pride, patriotism and shame.
Gordon Lightfoot may not be my favourite Canadian folk artist, but what the f*** does that say about his competition???
recommended songs
(In no particular order)
- Pilgrim – Jesse Welles
- Farewell Angelina – Joan Baez
- Baby, Please Don’t Go – John Lee Hooker OR AC/DC
- Tassez-vous de d’là – Les Colocs
- The Past Before You – Metalwood
- Fisherman’s Blues – The Waterboys
- Dear Landlord – Joe Cocker
- Sommartider – Gyllene Tider
- Snake Song – Townes Van Zandt
- The Jungle Line – Joni Mitchell
Very folk heavy week, come to think of it. Catch y’all on the flip side!
Garnet's Gems 
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