Alistair Christl

Hardworking Toronto, ON guitar-slinger Christl plays with the likes of rockabilly legend Ronnie Hayward, Terra Hazelton and Ginger St. James, while this album confirms he's also a serious talent as a vocalist and songwriter. He terms his style "hillbilly pop" and he covers wide-ranging roots terrain on his eight original tunes. His rich voice brings Roy Orbison to mind on "Amelia," while there's a distinct Chris Isaak feel to "Spanish Melody" and the haunting "Troubles to the Train," an album highlight. The moody "Haunted Love" sounds like it belongs on the soundtrack of a David Lynch film. The trio's sound is kept quite sparse, with guest backing vocals by Hazelton on the rockabilly-ish "Little Jane May" and "Love Don't Add Up" adding variety. The resonant twang of Christl's guitar possesses a suitably retro vibe that runs throughout this impressive offering.