Tweet

Album Details

• Artist: Blackie and the Rodeo Kings
• Album: Bark
• Label: True North
• Year of Release: 2004
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: dscanland on 2004-08-16

While I haven't been an avid fan of Blackie and the Rodeo Kings I have heard most of their material. When asked if I wanted to review their new album, Bark, I literally jumped at the chance. For those non-Canadian's reading this review, let me update you on Blackie and the Rodeo Kings. This bit of a supergroup was formed back in 1996 when Canadian Blues icon Colin Linden, established folkie Stephen Fearing and former Junkhouse leader Tom Wilson all found a common love for Willie P. Bennett. Bark is their third album together and every album they have received critical acclaim for. While there was no doubt about any of the three's songwriting capability, you have to admire the diversity of an album when all three take turns stepping forward and presenting their goods. The album starts out with a Wilson song, "Swinging From The Chains Of Love", a rollicking track that is as good an opener as any group could ask for. "Water or Gasoline" is a heavy blues ditty that has a great singalong chorus. Another great track, "Stoned", features Tom's baritone voice and Colin's amazing guitar playing. My favorite track, though, is Linden's "Jackie Washington", a very upbeat blues track that gets your head nodding like crazy. I gave the album a strong four stars but I think that if I keep returning to the album, that rating may move up as I become intimate with this music. If you are at all interested in any folk/roots music, you need to track this album down. Start here and work your way back through their growing catalog.

User Reviews and Comments

Log In or Register to Rate Albums