Blackie and the Rodeo Kings - Let's Frolic Album Review

Blackie and the Rodeo Kings
Let's Frolic
Album Review

Blackie and the Rodeo Kings are considered something of a Canadian supergroup, but the 'super' is mostly because they combine the talents of three decent singer-songwriters - Stephen Fearing, Colin Linden and Tom Wilson. Let's Frolic is a straighahead, bar band kind of disc that reminds of The Band, or Canada's own Blue Rodeo, more than anything else.

In fact, The Band's Garth Hudson lends his talents to this Americana-heavy album, and legends like Daniel Lanois lent songs. Occasionally (as on Life Is Golden), some rawk breaks out, and the proceedings become more interesting, but this isn't a particularly exciting record. Instead, it edges along on a light Clapton groove, pulling in styles from country, and gentle blues rock. It's easy to get the impression that there is more to give, that putting what is clearly a tight live band sound on a record isn't easy. Worth a look if you're more Bob Harris Radio 2 than Radio 6.

3/5

Mike Rea