Over 30 years in the game, dating back to 80s Canadian rockers Eye Eye, Bill Wood's been honing the craft, learning more and more about making those songs sound honest and real. His latest collection sees him firmly planted in roots writing, leaning more country for the bulk. For a Toronto guy, he's sounding very rural, kind of an urban Fred Eaglesmith.
With plenty of twang, and lots of effective guitar from Woodies stalwart Chris Bennett, the proper honky tonk atmosphere is all set for Wood's tight tales of romance, heartache, diners, and other life lessons. Best is Boots, as fine a tribute to a well-word set of footwear as ever concocted, a pair that has taken him to both Portlands, Oregon and Maine. Rocks In My Head is the most country in both music and classic lyrics, as he spends each night in the bars since she's been gone, and he's admitted he's basically gone stupid: "Oh honey you were my IQ." My Little Town is a surprise, not the story of some one-industry spot in the boonies, but rather about the demise of inner-city neighbourhoods as they see their stores and old homes bulldozed as well. Wood's combination of barroom spirit and authentic writing is uplifting.
Here's a video for This Old Heart:
ReplyDeletehttps://youtu.be/oaY17gruCMw