MUSIC REVIEW OF THE DAY: BRADEN LAM - DRIFTWOOD PEOPLE

Here's the latest EP from the Halifax-based Lam, a six-track set that boasts strong singles and lots of feel-good energy. But it's got substance too, with its theme of losing one's self to find the real you. Driftwood People is about getting out, looking around, and appreciating what you have, and what you find. The fact he can fit that into catchy, upbeat folk-pop is a significant accomplishment.

Into The Light came out as a single last year and made some best-of lists and won a SOCAN young songwriter's award, driving folk with some Maritime fiddle for local colour. His life moving around is reflected in a couple of snapshot tunes. Halifax Girl is about moving from Ontario and maybe finding that East Coast love, while Dawson City has the most modern edge, some sonic tricks and a Call Of The Wild Reference. And the title cut explains the most about the album theme, Driftwood People being those who move around and mess things up instead of making positive connections. Good topic, lots of personal growth on display, and fine melodies to drive the message home.

Catch Braden Lam and the Driftwood People playing around the Maritimes in the coming days, including the release party at the Carleton in Halifax, Thursday Oct. 4.