Composed of pianist and songwriter Andrew Pollock, classically-trained pianist Mike Butler and vocalist Laura McAlpine, and backed by some top-notch studio musicians, the Toronto-based trio Highgate Road should, in theory, make interesting music. Unfortunately, the eight tracks on this self-titled debut sound too much like the get-me-the-hell-out-of-here combination of lounge music at an airport Holiday Inn or alternative church music with full-band accompaniment.
In fairness, the album might have an enviable audience among the Sunday morning crowd, and there's certainly no shortage of talent on display here, but it will take a leap of faith to consider Highgate Road a listenable and legitimate entry in any folk, rock or even country category.
(Independent)In fairness, the album might have an enviable audience among the Sunday morning crowd, and there's certainly no shortage of talent on display here, but it will take a leap of faith to consider Highgate Road a listenable and legitimate entry in any folk, rock or even country category.