THE RURAL ALBERTA ADVANTAGE play the Phoenix April 29. See listing. Rating: NNNN
The Rural Alberta Advantage rode earnest lyrics and melodic folk rock to breakout success on their debut. The hometown heroes’ long-awaited follow-up repeats that formula, but with the added confidence of years of sold-out shows and packed-venue singalongs.
They’re definitely hitting the same beats as they did in their debut. The Breakup, for instance, sets Nils Edenloff’s nostalgic narrative of heartbreak in the Prairies against quiet keys and busy percussion, much like Don’t Haunt This Place on Hometowns. Muscle Relaxants, on the other hand, repeats The Dethbridge In Lethbridge’s full-speed-ahead mix of overextended boy-next-door vocals and vigorously strummed acoustic guitar.
The similarities might lead some to call it a sophomore slump, but Departing is more a companion than a retread. RAA’s secret weapon has always been the expert drumming of Paul Banwatt, and here he’s given more of a chance to shine. And the band’s emphasis on catchy hooks strengthens their populist appeal.
Top track: Tornado 87
