Just A Poet
Panda Cave, 2024
9/10
The Ottawa singer-songwriter Lynne Hanson never disappoints, and this 10th studio album continues her poetic wordplay and folk friendly ways with more emphasis on country sounds.
“Outlaw Lover” opens the listen with a calm spirit, where Philippe Charbonneau’s skilled bass suits Hanson’s expressive pipes, and “Just A Little Bit” follows with Marshall Bureau’s thumping drums alongside the flowing vocals of the harmonic delivery.
Moving into the middle, the crisp and melodic “Can’t Let Go” benefits much from Jim Bryson’s warm keys, while “About Yesterday” carries plenty of radiant and lush roots rock that makes this the album’s best.
Arriving close to the end, “Light In Me” is both soulful and bluesy, where Hanson’s voice floats above the meticulous musicianship, and “Halfway Whole” exits with intimate acoustic guitar and heartfelt songwriting that certainly embraces country nods, too.
In addition to the aforementioned, backing vocals are provided by Emma Lamontagne, Tara Holloway and Ken Yates. Together, and with Bryson’s production skills, we’re treated to another relatable and cozy record from ‘Canada’s own Queen of Americana’.
Travels well with: Lori Triplett- When The Morning Comes; Annie Moscow- Land Of Dreams