专辑简介

Inspired by the current economic downturn and experiences living in Toronto, here are twelve insightful, gripping roots songs about working and being out of work, about poverty and death, defiance and empowerment. The subject matter may sound bleak, but sweet harmonies, toe-tapping arrangements and funny lyrics give the cd lots of energy to explore serious topics without getting bogged down in them.

Though set mostly in Toronto, the album was produced with collaborators from across Canada. James Anstey, who played banjo on Alex’s first cd, Love Bites, returns, this time providing stellar accompaniment from his new home on the left coast. Meanwhile, violin parts for John Doe and Human Resources Blues were imported from Wolfville, Nova Scotia’s Ariana Nasr (t@b). With Galen Pelley (The O Darling) on drums, additional instrumentation by Leagues + Fathoms, and guest vocals by Tanya Philipovich and Lucas Stagg, the album has a full, rich sound to complement and underscore Alex’s vivid songwriting.

These stories need to be told and Alex Hickey has the voice and the conviction needed to tell them passionately. There are stories about getting fired (Human Resources Blues) and having to move back home to your folks’ (The Day the Money Run Out). There are songs about wage slavery (Elevator Blues) and living on the streets (John Doe). There’s a cautionary tale about getting carried away by materialism (Buy More Buddhas) and clarion calls to take it easier (Daytime Lullaby, Rest With Me Tonight) and to follow your heart (Never Too Late). The Day the Money Run Out inspires and uplifts by embracing harsh truths and hope with every breath.