Children Of Celebrities

Long-time favourites in their native Victoria, BC, these fun-loving, self-described "pseudo-middle-aged guys" play the kind of music tailor-made for the Canadian folk festival circuit. These are self-effacing acoustic tunes that are easy on the ears, with just enough hints of bluegrass to show off each member's prowess on their chosen instrument. In this sense, Stereo Bang Bang (the group's third album) delivers exactly what it promises: what they call "enviro-cowboy lounge music." It's hard to find fault with such specific intentions, and as a group, the Children Of Celebrities are solid, if unspectacular. But anyone seeking anything more profound in their music beyond tales of female rodeo clowns will be disappointed. Covers of Tom Waits ("Tango 'Til They're Sore") and Johnny Cash ("Let The Train Blow The Whistle") show some extra ambition, but Stereo Bang Bang is best suited to the Jimmy Buffett fan in your life.