Edmonton Journal

The ambient-country soundscapes of Shuyler Jansen's first album, Hobotron, are yesterday's remains. The Edmonton native opts for a more traditional approach on his latest roots effort, produced by guitar whiz and label boss Steve Dawson. Organs hum, strings weep, drums shuffle and guitars gently trot while Jansen recounts tales of lost souls, horse races, jealous girls and naive boys. As a result, Today's Remains isn't as sweeping as his debut, emotionally or sonically, and isn't quite as captivating. Jansen bursts out of the gate with five strong numbers -- particularly the wistful, prancing Pegasus and the hauntingly gorgeous Windswept -- but runs out of steam before he gets to the finish line. Jansen performs Nov. 2 at the Pawn Shop on Whyte Avenue. 3 1/2

- Sandra Sperounes