A fantastically crafted album that’s been on repeat in every musical appliance I own lately is Summer of Lust by Library Voices [LV]. The Regina supergroup’s sophomore full-length collection came out on August 23rd, which helped kicked off their tour across Canada. I saw these guys in concert last year, and soon after purchased Denim on Denim. That disc also got some fair play on the ol’ boombox, but there’s an extra flavour to Summer of Lust. A little more pizzazz and variance added to an already talented and vivacious act like LV equals a release that kicks their energy level up several notches. I saw them again this year, and was instantly reminded why this band’s got charisma. The multi-instrumental band trend is back in a big way, and these Queen City sweeties definitely make your toe tap. But really, having two guitars, a bass, a sax, keyboards, accordion, glockenspiel and drums (and even a tambourine!!) combined with some kick ass musicians to play them will do that to you!

Every song on this album is catchy as hell, but there are a few gems that definitely stand out.

The first track entitled If Raymond Carver was Born in the 90′s is a perfect start for this addictive album. The music builds into this lyrically dynamic track and it’s so wonderfully poppy it just grabs you. The song explores the plight of a fellow contemplating his seemingly rambunctious pattern of drinking and playing music, and how life may be passing him right by. One of my favourite lines from this is from the chorus: All my friends are buying diamonds for their girls and bringing children into this world, signing their names to a home that they’ve captured. Me? I’m still writing songs I’m scared you’ll hear someday.

With a title like Reluctant Readers Make Reluctant Lovers, this track name-drops some of literatures most renowned authors and their titles and turns them into lyrical artistry.

Another favourite track of mine is Traveler’s Digest. The strong sax and keys in this song really drew me in, but seriously, this was probably the song that I enjoyed the most when I saw them play live. They rock every song they perform, but there’s barely a word that encapsulates the sheer amount of energy that the room was buzzing with as the ensemble performed this song.

The first single The Prime Minister’s Daughter is a poignantly crafted melodic jab at Stephen Harper’s comments about regular people not caring about art. I freakin’ love it. Earlier this year, lead vocalist Michael Dawson wrote a piece describing the band’s motivation behind the song:

“The Prime Minister’s Daughter is just our little gesture hoping that Harper’s little girl grows up and falls madly in love with a working class musician. What I wouldn’t give to be a fly on the wall when she brings him home to meet her family.”

You said it, Michael!

One of the things I enjoy most about the Library Voices is their ability to feed off one other’s strengths. Their spine-shivering harmonies, their ability to let everyone shine musically, and their musical dexterity easily make this troupe one of Canada’s most talented pop acts — and one of my personal faves. Summer of Lust is the perfect title for a CD that leaves you with an unwavering desire to listen many times over.

Written by Kathy Gallant
Fill in Host and Alternate Host for Monday’s Green Eggs and Ham

Edited by Craig Silliphant
CFCR Board Member