Review: Lonesome Destiny

After a few listens to Lonesome Destiny, I was quite captivated.

I'd put Cuddy-Keelor at the top of my rock/pop vocalist sing-off, but the EP again clearly shows that Blue Rodeo needs Bob Egan to sing. It would broaden, diversify, and enhance the band's sound. All three would work well on various Egan songs from Lonesome Destiny and The Promise. I'd presume there'd be no need to think of Stu and Cosmo invading Fogerty's turf, but rather of George expanding John and Paul's palette.

The first two songs are treasures, a great kick-off for the EP. Maybe call "Liloette" an up-tempo folk song with admirable lyrics and a warm Lightfootian vocal. It’s an understatement for such an endearing song.

"Sarah's Song" hits like classic Orbison, a very listener-friendly song that evokes Roy and maybe a rockin' – believe it or not – Peter Yarrow. Egan's steel guitar hooks you in and in and in… and then delivers a tasty, instrumental E Street ending.

"Just A Man," is another great vocal by Bob and Brenley MacEachern.

I haven't been able to warm up to the first half of "Desire," but I'm taken by the keyboards and trumpets.

There are many fine moments in the Ancient Future-like "Enter The Desert." New age with chops: quite relaxing, and even spooky.

Monster electric guitar riffs charge through "Muddy Waters," a powerful, playful piece. I'd rather ditch the spoken vocal.

I'm left wanting more... and wonder when that will be.