Rating: NNN
Harness is widely considered one of Canada’s most gifted songwriters. There’s no denying that the man has a certain lyrical verve and an impressively quirky sincerity. Still, you can’t help but feel that many of these songs would fare better under the ministrations of a performer somewhat less mired in the unintentional comedy of his voice. Not to say that he’s a bad singer. Far from it. It’s just that not all these songs get the treatment they deserve, filtered through Harness’s oddness, which recalls a less angry Jonathan Richman. Forgetting that, The Miracle Business continues Harness’s tenure as a songwriter’s songwriter.
Kyp Harness launches his CD at Hugh’s Room Sunday (April 18).
