CD Reviews

Perhaps one of the best, if not the greatest, and most popular bands on the Canadian rock music scene, the Hip have come a long way since the days when they first started out in Kingston, Ontario. The fact that their music is so uniquely Canadian, in terms of perspective and content, has established them as a cultural cornerstone up here; but for this same reason they have been unable to break ground in the States. Their latest album, Day for Night, is no exception. Like most of their other albums this one strikes a fair balance between rock tunes and slow songs. Like most other bands there is infinite depth in their lyrics, but unlike most other bands most of their songs are based on or relate some kind of story that is not immediately apparent when you first listen to the song. The interesting thing is that most of these stories rely on a deeper philosophical meaning. But leaving all that aside what it basically comes down to is that we have here a rocking album from an equally rocking band.

Hailing from Calgary, Alberta, this young lady has won the hearts of many and earned herself a loyal fan following. A lot like her previous album, her sophomore effort, Living under June, honours her genre of music. Best known for her soft rock tunes and love ballads, Jann Arden uses a time-honoured formula of sad-happy, lovey-dovey songs. But the best part is that she does it exceptionally well. Her voice works quite well as a medium to carry the emotions that go hand in hand with her soulful lyrics. After much thought I have come to the conclusion that the only word that can best describe Ms. Arden and her music is "beautiful." For those of you who like soft music this is a definite must have.