CD Review: Couple Of New Albums From Independent Canandian Artists

First from Canada comes the latest album titled "The Happiest Man In The World" from award-winning roots musician Eric Bibb along with the North Country Far and legendary bassist Danny Thompson. The new 14-song release begins with the bluesy-stomp of the title-song as Bibb along with his banjo lead the way to the countryside. The gentle acoustic blues of "Toolin's Down The Road" and "Tossin' And Turnin'," bring back the early days of Robert Johnson, when the blues was young. The North Country Far add a funk groove to "Born To Your Man," while Bibb has fun with the lyrics and then warms your heart with the up-tempo appeal of "King Size Bed." They keep the traditional setting of "Tell Ol' Bill," before closing with a slowed-down bluesy version of The Kinks' "You Really Got Me." To find out more about Eric Bibb and North Country Far and their latest release "The Happiest Man In The World," please visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/northcountryfar.

Also from Canada comes the debut album from singer/songwriter/musician Paul Reddick titled "Ride The One." It will be released on May 20th through Stony Plain Records, which is celebrating 40 years as a label. The new eleven-song release begins with the rough-blues of "Shadows" as Reddick dances between his passionate vocals and intense harmonica. He keeps the energy flowing through "Celebrate," before coasting into the smooth sounds of "Mourning Dove." He brings together the elements of blues, rock and country to create the attractive  rhythm of "Gotta Find A" and continues with his spot on instincts for the guitar-driven rocker "Watersmooth." The album finishes with the powerful, electric blues of "Living In Another World" and the harmonica duet of "Moon And Star." To find out more about Paul Reddick and his new release "Ride The One," please visit paulreddick.ca.