NORTHEY VALENZUELA
Northey Valenzuela (Mile High/Maple Music)
Reviewed by Bill Holmes

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Northey, the soul of Canada's Odds, and Valenzuela, the heart of the Gin Blossoms, combine for a pop platter that meets both players on common ground. Backed by criminally under-known musicians like axeman Colin James, bassist Doug Elliott and drummer Pat Seward (the latter two the formidable rhythm section of those late great Odds), Craig and Jesse make knocking out catchy songs seem effortless. Both musicians endured the demise of strong bands in an unforgiving industry, then spent time collaborating and touring with others before quietly releasing solo projects. Apparently they share a mutual love for Booker T & The MGs and blue eyed soul, for this new project is dripping with aural honey.

Where Valenzuela's songs tend to be familiar sounding ("See Through Heart" and "Hurting On The Outside" are both reminiscent of Tom Petty, for example), Northey is more likely to challenge with minor keys and introspective lyrics. "Something Good" (a nicer take than the Colin James version) is beautifully soulful, as is "Let It Go" - major kudos to Simon Kendall's supportive organ playing on both. But they complement each other well vocally and musically. They're funky - "Halfway To Happy" sounds like a kissing cousin to John Hiatt's "Riding With The King." And they can rock, churning up "Slow Goodbye" and exhuming the 70s era Ron Wood on the fiery "Borrowing Trouble."

And if you are a fellow Odds fan, you'll have a big smile on your face. "Not A Lot Goin' On" sounds like the great lost outtake; everything from the intelligent lyrics to the counterpoint background vocals (think "Someone Who's Cool") is right on the mark.

Northey Valenzuela has cut a great record that needs a wider audience. Gee, how about US distribution for starters?

[Pick this up at www.maplemusic.com.]

© 2005 - Bill Holmes