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Album Details

• Artist: Various Artists
• Album: The Secret Sessions - Rheostatics Tribute
• Label: Zunior
• Year of Release: 2007
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: dscanland on 2007-06-05

Those outside of Canada most likely have no clue who the Rheostatics are. Sorry, those outside of the alt.music world in Canada will have no idea who the Rheostatics are. Let me fill you in, they are one of the most influential, charming, down-to-earth bands from Canada.

Now messing with the Rheostatics is something that needs caution and a gentle touch, because these songs are so dear to so many. Luckily the fine folks over at Zunior recruited the best of Canadian bands to take on this feat. Another beloved Canadian band, The Weakerthans take on "Bad Time To Be Poor", almost making it sound like a Neil Young song. I'm not familiar with them but Stephen Stanley and Carla MacNeil take on one of my favorites, "Take Me In Your Hand" and come out on top. Haven't heard much from Weeping Tile for a while but they countrify "Public Square", maybe not the best track of The Secret Sessions but decent. The Wooden Stars take on "Saskatchewan" and end up with one of the most personal versions out of the set. The Inbreds make "Dope Fiends and Booze Hounds" their own. I miss King Cobb Steelie. They mix up two tracks, "Night Of The Shooting Stars" and "Music Inspired By The Group Of Seven" and add a nice change of pace with their electronic flavored music. I guess a Canadian indie comp wouldn't be complete without Barenaked Ladies. A band called The Golden Seals take on one of my sons favorites, "Loving Arms". My favorite Rheostatic track, "Claire" is done every so gently by Cuff The Duke. By Divine Right makes an appearance with "Shaved Head", a nice loungy rendition. Dylan Hudecki gets kudos for the weirdest cover of "Satan Is The Whistler", very dark indeed. The Local Rabbits get together again to pull of a very inspired "Record Body Count", another great one on the compilation.

Dave Bidini, Martin Tielli and the rest of the Rheostatics should be tickled with this inspired tribute. Should also be noted that sale proceeds will go to charity.

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