If you do not listen to Justin Rutledge already, now is a very good time to start. His fourth album, The Early Widows, made this year's Polaris Long List.While he is often categorized as country, fans of indie and alternative rock will also appreciate Rutledge's unique and organic sound. The album’s first cut, Be a Man, co-written by Michael Ondaatje, captivated me in immediately. With its earthy sound combined with almost heartbreakingly intimate lyrics, this song made my world stand still for its entirety. The bittersweet band and poignant poetry carries on through the ten tracks (all of which are perfectly arranged by Hawksley Workman).
After listening one does begin to wonder, what exactly made Justin so sad? However, at the same time, really appreciate his articulate melancholy. This album is perfect to listen to calm a frustrating commute or to illuminate a dark place.
You can listen to and find more information on Rutledge at the following:
http://www.justinrutledge.com/
http://www.myspace.com/justinrutledge
http://www.sixshooterrecords.com/six_site/six_www.html
http://radio3.cbc.ca/
I've seen Justin perform a few times at the Junction Arts Festival. He's a sweetheart and sounds delightful :)
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