Precious Diamonds
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The far north, Canadian artist Adrian Sutherland has fronted Midnight Shine for 3 records now, and this solo venture explores influences like Tom Petty, Neil Young and Bryan Adams.
“Notawe (Father)” starts the listen with warm acoustic guitar and Sutherland’s gentle, cozy voice illuminating the folk filled climate, and “My Rebel Spirit” follows with Colin Linden’s buzzing guitar and Jerry Roe’s agile drumming making for a more rugged approach.
“Diamonds” occupies the middle spot, and radiates much melody thanks to Linden’s glowing guitar, John Dymond’s skilled bass and Sutherland’s expressive pipes, while “The Storm” is a more intimate moment of sublime balladry that showcases an impressive range from Sutherland amid Janice Powers’ moody organ.
“Let It Shine” and “Precious” exit the listen, where the former touches on timeless folk-rock ideas that welcome well timed harmonica, and the latter carries a thicker presence, as grooves enter a bluesy finish.
This is Sutherland’s 2nd solo album, and he traveled to Nashville to lay down the record. There are a pair of songs in his mother tongue, Cree, and the folk, blues, roots and rock sensibilities continue his sincerity and cultural endeavors with much worldly appeal.
Travels well with: Adrian Sutherland & Midnight Shine- James Bay; The Tragically Hip- Phantom Power