For their first studio album in four years, the Lovelies do indeed burn the plan, or at least ignore the expectations as Canada's leading folk-roots vocal trio. Instead they deliver a much more layered and pop-driven set of songs. Producer Les Cooper is back on board, but this time he's given more space to drop in some of the dreamy textures and uptempo touches that he used for others such as Jill Barber and Meaghan Smith.
The heavenly vocals of Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough and Sue Passmore are still there, but there's a lot more polish to the sounds. Waiting For You shimmers with ringing guitar, its pop hooks as big as the harmonies. Broken Hearted's background doo-de-doo' are processed as well as pretty. Banjo and mandolin are occasionally present, but certainly not at the level of the keys or slippery bass lines.
Fear not, folk fans, it's still ear candy, and the songwriting from the trio is lyrically sharp, adventurous and compelling. And the all-important vocal arrangements remain the greatest strength of their sound, no matter what direction the group leans.
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