Canadiana
Linus, 2021
9/10
When it comes to brass quintets, it just doesn’t get much better than Canadian Brass, who interpret 11 timeless songs here while injecting their inimitable presence with much care as they illuminate the work of K.D. Lang, Rush, Bruce Cockburn and many more.
“Je Me Souviens”, by Lara Fabian, opens with the warm and soulful brass moving elegantly with precise interaction, and “Senorita” follows with no shortage of melody and spirit as the outfit turn in a cozy rendition of the Shawn Mendes tune.
In the middle, “Both Sides, Now”, welcomes Ingrid Jensen on trumpet as a dreamy setting unfolds in the Joni Mitchell classic, while “Laugh Now, Cry Later” benefits from Nathan Schram’s beats as much atmosphere flows amid a lush and bright execution that does justice to the Drake original.
Further along, “Best Part”, by Daniel Cesar & H.E.R., illustrates a strategic restraint where the horns and percussion interact with incredible skill, and “Halleluhah” finishes the listen with gorgeous musicianship and stirring dynamics as the trumpets, sax and trombone cultivate a very unique presence on a commonly covered gem that has never sounded quite like this.
It’s certainly no surprise that Canadian Brass have sold over 2 million records and have charted in every decade they’ve been together, cause their keen attention to detail and radiant chemistry make each selection they choose an adventure in rich, moving song craft.
Travels well with: Sergei Kvitko- MOZART. Post Scriptum; Victoria Bond- Illumination: Piano Works Of Victoria Bond