These songs by Martin Tielli, guitarist/vocalist of Canadian art rockers
the Rheostatics
, reveal a sardonic look at different aspects of life, including a few revolving around the music industry. Exemplified by
"My Sweet Relief,"
a song revolving about a singer "clear and true" but not "wearin' the right boots."
"Voices From the Wilderness,"
upon close listen, is an obvious reference to
Rush
singer
Geddy Lee
. The artistic, intrinsic style of
Tielli
is the trait which carries so many of the songs, particularly when it comes to
"Farmer in the City,"
one of the two longer tunes among the 11.
"That's How They Do It in Warsaw"
is the only upbeat, up-tempo song, with some lyrics in Polish.
"From the Reel"
is the highlight, which is saying quite a lot in this extremely qualitative offering. ~ Jason MacNeil