ALBUM REVIEW: THE COMMONERS - RESTLESS

Gypsy Soul Records

For fans who have journeyed alongside the Canadian Roots-Rock quintet since their critically acclaimed release, Find A Better Way, this latest offering is a continuation of a dedicated musical odyssey. With each chord infused with Southern-style swagger, every note punctuated by the haunting wail of slide guitar or the swell of organ keys, and every lyric delivered with heartfelt conviction, the album exudes an aura of authenticity. This musical journey represents a natural evolution for this band’s sound. These ten well-crafted songs mix different musical styles but with their own twist. Recorded at RHC Music in Toronto, this release offers a dynamic spectrum of soundscapes, seamlessly weaving introspective, slower-tempo ballads with rip-roaring anthems. This is undoubtedly the band’s best work to date, taking the listener on a blues rock infused journey. From the opening bars of Devil Teasin’ Me, the pace is set with dynamic guitar riffs infused with pulsating rhythm section. Shake You Off continues the rocky vibe, Chris Medhurst on vocals screaming the lyrics and backing rhythm is phenomenal, vocal harmonies ring through clear a barnstormer.

The Way I Am, has a 70s Bad Company feel to it, anthemic blues rock personified. The tone recedes on the mellow tones of the title track, Restless one for a summer’s day car drive, melodic and harmonious. Who Are You is another highlight, intoxicating sound from the start, a crowd pleaser, dancefloor filler. Too Soon To Know You is a self-reflective tune about life’s changing evolution, a slow mellow vibe. Last track is an unplugged beautiful raw acoustic song, All That We Have, just sublime.

COLIN CAMPBELL