This came out in 2005 — or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
No, not that Jim.
Despite what you might infer from its title, Blue Rodeo singer-guitarist Greg Keelor’s new solo album is not a collection of tunes penned for his musical brother Jim Cuddy. They’re songs he wrote during and after the death of his father Jim in late 2003. So, obviously, this seven-track disc is a highly personal and intimate tribute.
Armed with his grief and his considerable talents, Keelor spends 40 minutes reminiscing about his childhood and ruminating on life, love, time and loss. And as he quietly plucks pretty melodies from acoustic and electric guitars and sings in hushed Beckish tones, he lovingly sends his dad off into that good night to the sounds of laid-back roots and gentle folk.
Unless you’re a Blue Rodeo completist, this may not be essential. But just one listen to this sombrely beautiful set is all it takes to understand how essential it was for Keelor to complete.
