My Album of the Week (the first real one of 2011) is Canter Canter by the earnest and evocative country-rock band, Tacoma Hellfarm Tragedy. It's been almost four years since we've heard from this skilled outfit but their penchant for writing dark, gritty, hickory smoke flavoured tunes has far from diminished. In fact, they've been so pent up, they've unleashed a double album into the world and it twists and turns dynamically from feel to feel, flawless and fresh. Lead singer Brad Giefert keeps his voice even throughout, speak-singing heart-wrenching, occasionally sinister tales that are as vivid and wise as any in Canada's country canon, while the band itself is nimble and bouncy, modestly aware of their respective instrumental genius and just show-y enough to impress. It's a joy to hear the Tacomas back in action, but a real thrill to find them in such perfect form, kicking up dust on Canter Canter.
Are you a fan of Tacoma Hellfarm Tragedy? Any plans to pick up their new, double-vinyl record?
I have five vinyl copies of Canter Canter to give away to the first people on the blog to respond with correct
answers to questions I'll ask on the air throughout today's show. If this ends up being you (once!), please e-mail vish_khanna [at] cbcradio3.com
with "Tacoma, Tacoma, I love you Tacoma" in the subject line, and your blog
moniker and shipping address in your message.
Old or new, Canadian or otherwise, what is YOUR album of the week?
The Tacoma Hellfarm Tragedy play the Ebar in Guelph, ON on January 20th and the Blackshire Pub in London, ON on February 25th.