The
Claytones – Lake In The Night (Rip Roar Music)
Though “Lake In The Night” is The Claytones official
debut album, the Ontario trio of Kelly Prescott (vocals, acoustic guitar),
Anders Drerup (vocals, guitar, organ, piano, pedal steel, lap steel) and Adam
Puddington (bass, acoustic guitar, backing vocals, accordion) have a wealth of
experience with various bands, solo projects and even the theatre. In fact
Drerup and Prescott starred as Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris in a much
acclaimed production of “Grievous Angel: The Legend of Gram Parsons”, and their
musical chemistry is present throughout the ten tracks of harmony drenched
cosmic Canadiana, though importantly, all three members write and arrange
together.
So, three writers, three singers, and enough
instrumentation for a small orchestra, it’s no surprise that what they lack in
numbers, they more than compensate with a full, rich sound topped with heartfelt
songs and first-rate vocals. The record begins with the sublime “Brother Hold On”. The level of
musicianship is excellent, with Drerup’s steel shimmering gently, filling the
gaps and providing depth and emotional resonance. It’s also a desperately poignant
lead vocal from Prescott. She’s just as effective on “Out On the Road Tonight”, but here she’s confident
and certain, almost a Lucinda Williams(esque) performance, as the guys
simultaneously dig in like a country-rock Heartbreakers. They’re currently
being touted as one of the top five Canadian bands to look out for in 2012 (The
National Post). I’m certainly glad I found them.
Rob F.
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