Joel PlaskettÂ
Three (MapleMusic/Universal)Â
It may seem antiquated nowadays to present a package of Plaskett’s three distinct moods on separate discs, but similar to fellow Nova Scotians Sloan’s 30-track epicNever Hear the End of It, there’s something about the smooth aging of vaguely traditional and uniquely tasteful Maritime alternative rock that allows for a consistent experience irrespective of modernity (or lack thereof). The second, folkier disc is the highlight, as the maturing Plaskett strums and croons with a symbolic night sky full of stars hovering overhead. Don’t be intimidated by this 104-minute, three-disc behemoth—it’s the best Canadian-sounding rock record in years. 8.5/10 Trial Track: “In the Blue Moonlight†(Erik Leijon)
April 9, 2009