Wide Open Spaces
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The Juno Award winner Connie Kaldor pens an album that surrounds her Canadian West home, where both humor and keen observations discuss the dynamics of land, the difficulties of being a small farmer and the challenges of environmental stability.
The quick pace of “Outlaw” opens with Zacharie Bachand’s meticulous guitar and Aaron Dohlman’s frisky drums alongside Kaldor’s flowing voice, and “This Car” follows with grit thanks to Aleksi Campagne’s animated violin and well timed backing vocals.
Closer to the middle, “Hitched Together” is a cozy, acoustic guitar fueled moment full of vivid storytelling, while “If You Were There” finds itself in balladry thanks to the graceful piano and emotive singing.
Residing near the end, the meticulous guitar picking of “Crane Valley Road” blends the pedal steel and sweet vocal harmonies via a distinct intimacy, and “For Those Who Say That There’s Nothing Here” exits with a strong and dramatic vocal performance amid the firm keys.
An insightful and eloquent affair, Kaldor blends folk, Americana and country ideas into a variety of textures that are heartfelt and authentic.
Travels well with: Connie Kaldor- Keep Going; Suzie Brown- Songs Worth Saving