The Province

Halifax-based Chris Luedecke has an interesting, old-timey take on music, writing a lot of tunes that have a sturdy, rubbed-oak quality to them. He's also alert enough to surround himself with West Coast talent like über-producer Steve Dawson at the board and a variety of instruments, plus ace mandolinist John Reischman and the gospel choral group The Sojourners. "Ain't Goin' My Way," replete with Luedecke's signature clawhammer banjo, is a highlight and so is the cheery, bouncy "Big Group Breakfast." The traditional "Johnny Has Gone For a Soldier" is a solid, timely addition. B

- J.P.M.