In Violet Light

by

The Tragically Hip

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After the past few albums I was beginning to think The Hip had past their prime. In Violet Light renews my faith with a collection of well chosen songs that make up the most cohesive album they have done in years. Producer Hugh Padgham brings out an energy, clarity and simplicity in the music that seemed to have been lost recently and Gord Downie has never sounded better. Don't expect the over produced, layered approach of Music@Work.

From the storming opener "Are You Ready", through the atmospheric beauty of current single "It's a Good Life ...", the riff heavy drive of "All Tore Up" recalling the energy they had on their earlier albums, to the soaring chorus of "Beautiful Thing" all the lyrical and musical elements you expect from The Hip are there. Including a song about birds.

The added bonus of The Hip Club membership reward card is just one more reason to buy this album. A remarkably simple way to reward the fan who actually purchases rather than copies the album.

"music that can help you feel great" - Use It Up

I have to admit, I am prejudiced. I love this band. I have been a fan since their major label debut on Up To Here. Over the years I have been at first skeptical of some of their sonic exploration, but I always end up loving it. This album is a little harder to love. I only recently discovered that some fans don't apparently like Music @ Work, an album one review called experimental. I'd hardly go that far. When I first heard Music @ Work, I didn't like it. Then I found myself humming the tunes... That album has definitely grown on me, and I absolutely love it now. I'm not sure I'll grow to love this one, but I definitely like it a little more every time I listen to it. And I've found myself humming again...

Anyway, if you are unfamiliar with this band, you need to listen. I'm American, and for some reason the Hip haven't caught on here like in Canada, where they are rock gods. Every friend I've introduced to the Hip has gone on to buy their albums. When I go a couple of weeks or more without listening to the Hip, then put one of their albums on, I immediately remember why they are my favorite band. Every time.