SNOWBLINK play Soundscapes on March 3, Music Gallery on March 5 and the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on March 22. See listing. Rating: NNNN
It’s somewhat unusual for a band to sign to a label and then re-release an album they made three years ago. But when said album is as strong and fresh-sounding as Snowblink’s debut, which had an extremely limited release the first time around, you won’t hear too many complaints. Beautiful new artwork, too.
Led by California’s Daniela Gesundheit, the Toronto-based band also includes Dan Goldman, though a dozen musicians add tasteful embellishments to the 15 tracks, which include some gorgeous transitional interludes. Gesundheit’s tunes have an intimate lullaby quality, like a more playful Julie Doiron, and her airy voice sends them into flight. She has amazing range, inventive melodies and vivid lyrics held steady by her plucking guitar.
Snowblink hit the road with Timber Timbre and Jeff Tweedy in late March, when we can hopefully hear new material.
Top track: Sea Change
Snowblink play Soundscapes on March 3, Music Gallery on March 5 and the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on March 22.
