Review: Kyp Harness

Kyp Harness – Resurrection Gold (Independent)
Kyp Harness may have a name that describes a safety device for reckless nappers, but he is, in fact, a singer-songwriter from Ontario and, I’m reliably informed, “Resurrection Gold” is his ninth album. That’s obviously given him plenty of time to pick up lots of fans, including some you might have heard of - so you’ll be interested to know Daniel Lanois has praised his writing and Ron Sexsmith has bagged him as his favourite songwriter. The latter’s a guest here, playing guitar and piano, but nothing too ostentatious to draw attention away from the star of the show.

Harness is a rootsy singer-songwriter with a generous, quirky way with words (incidentally, he’s an author, too). There’s enough twang in what he does to get a (fantastic) review on the AmericanaUK website, but he’s no country boy wringing emotion from smalltown heartbreak or comparing hat sizes with Toby Keith. There’s maybe some John Prine in his style, and even a little Lou Reed, which surely makes him much more interesting, and his songs, mini-novellas, twist and turn and live and breathe.

He starts off slow on “Passenger”, a mellow rumination on life’s journey and all that, a gentle, though slightly askew introduction to the album, before it takes a turn in a different direction; one that involves louder, feistier guitars, and further lyrical flights. It’s optimistic and life affirming, and favourites like “Wandering Heart” and the warm jangle and ever-expanding positivity of “Diggin' Your Vibe” gives the album a warmth and vitality, perfect for the coming season.
www.kypharness.net
Simon M.