David Baxter

Toronto, ON music veteran Baxter has long been the go-to guitarist for such artists as Justin Rutledge and Lori Yates. Of late, he has become a much in-demand roots music producer, and in 2009, he finally stepped into the solo spotlight with a fine, and very well received, debut album, Day & Age. As if making up for lost time, he has quickly released a second full-length, one that's equally as appealing. Baxter is an accomplished, versatile songwriter, while his voice is both mellow and full of character. It's no surprise he's ably assisted by a talented cast of comrades, including Rutledge, Burke Carroll, Brian Kobayakawa, Jason Sniderman, Gary Craig and Treasa Levasseur. The use of pedal steel, fiddle, mandolin, banjo and accordion ensures a rich, roots-based sound. Co-writers featured include Sherry Huffman (Baxter's collaborator in '80s band the Sharks), Catherine MacLellan and Christina Maria. MacLellan adds guest vocals on her tune, "A Waltz of our Own," an album highlight, as is the Christina Maria co-write, "Magdalena." There's a nice variety to the material, from the amiable shuffle of "Time Won't Wait" to upbeat romp "Rockin' in the Cradle of the South," while "She's Drinkin' Again" deserves to become a honky-tonk classic. This Patina does indeed shine.