Spill Magazine

Dynamically rich and tasteful would be a great way to begin explaining how this new CD from Steve Dawson sounds. Having paid his dues as a producer for years in various Canadian recording studios, Steve has been actively releasing solo projects for well over 10 years. His attention to detail and craftsmanship as a songwriter and producer really shine on this new album.

This CD truly get going on track 2, "Dry as our luck", it introduces the listener to Steve Dawson's seasoned songwriting skills and amazing acoustic guitar chops. It's a beautifully crafted tune, with impeccable production that really draws you in with its rhythmic folk appeal. Next up is a killer blues piece called "Fire Somewhere" which features some amazing slide guitar playing and sweet female backup vocals. There is one funny sounding keyboard harmonica that kind of throws the tune off kilter a little with its very synthetic sound. On track 5, Steve pulls off and amazing version of Dylan's "Walking down the line" which features some amazing acoustic finger picking and a Leslie organ solos. Bob would surely approve.

The album chugs along with great diversity and is just so genuinely country/roots-y, its hard to hit the stop button. Track 8 "Hurricane" is a welcome ballad with great metaphors such as how "Silence hits like a hurricane missing its mark", among many others in on the tune. Track 9 is a nice little acoustic jam that once again showcases Dawson's exceptional guitar skills. This is a chilled out tune that has a tasty xylophone added over top of a Lanois-esque keyboard in the background. Steve Dawson is a great Canadian ambassador to country/folk music, and should definitely be heard.

- Andre Skinner