- Kathleen Edwards
- Voyageur
(MapleMusic/ Rounder Records)
Rating: 9 (out of 10)
Acclaimed Ottawa-born recording artist Kathleen Edwards has returned with her fourth studio album and like the personal, while at times heartbreaking, journey she takes listeners on, it's very much a beautiful thing.
Armed with an interest in intensifying her sound as well as lyrical content, the 10 songs are put forth with an unapologetic indulgence that's entirely pleasing as well as relatable.
From the topic of relationships - "Change the sheets and then change me" in "Change the Sheets" - to her career - "Hang me up on your cross / For the record I only wanted to sing songs" in "For The Record," - Edwards moves slightly away from her character-driven tales of the past, instead offering a more direct look into her past experiences and future fears.
For Voyageur, she shares production credits with rumoured beau Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), a 2012 Grammy nominee. Recording took place from summer 2010 to spring of 2011 both at Vernon's home studio in Fall Creek, Wisc., and Toronto, Ont.
While most certainly Bon Iver-ified - Vernon's high harmonies, instrumentation and arrangement are clearly evident - Voyageur is most definitely an Edwards' album. Her alt country/folk rock/Americana leaning vibe endures, as does her melancholic storytelling.
First single "Change the Sheets" is a powerful song, very much encapsulating her goal with the work. Its falsetto backing vocals, pulsing organ and sense of longing expressed make it a truly affective song and one that stays with the listener.
The album gets rolling with "Empty Threat," one of
Voyageur's more up-tempo tracks. Anthemic in nature, it's built on a foundation of acoustic guitar, and is accented with electric guitar riffs and a piano hook. "Chameleon/Comedian" follows and was inspired by The Office's resident funnyman Rainn Wilson, who Edwards met at one of her shows.
In addition to Vernon, a number of talented artists join Edwards on the record -usual suspect Jim Bryson, Norah Jones, Afie Jurvanen (Bahamas) and Francis and the Lights among others.
Edwards' catalogue contains all winners, from 2003 debut Failer right up to 2008's Asking For Flowers. With Voyageur under her belt, she's proven her musical journey is far from over and it's certainly worth joining her for the ride.
