Peace Songs (Sony/BMG) Rating: NNNN Rating: NNNN
This two-disc compilation to benefit children affected by war is a like a really good mixed tape made by some cool friend with an appreciation for dorky pop and an ear turned just below the mainstream. War Child Canada – the charitable organization touted relentlessly by Canrock power couple Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida – pulled together a pleasingly eclectic assortment of artists to belt out their favourite old pacifist standards along with a few originals. Beth Orton’s soulful take on Ooh Child sounds like a hit off her Best Bit EP, Avril Lavigne’s version of Dylan’s Knocking On Heaven’s Door is surprisingly good, while Gord Downie and Graph Nobel definitely do us proud. It’s pretty hard to go wrong when you’re rockin’ on for a good cause.
