Most Underrated Albums of 2006
Five Albums That Have No Received the Credit They Deserve
Folk101 reveals what albums have not been given their just desserts in the year-end round ups. Somehow few have realized these are among 2006's best records.
These lovely ladies from Vancouver have been one of the best neo-folk groups around over the last few years, and this year they returned with an amazing new album.
Hello Love is everything a folk album should be. It takes simple arrangements as a solid foundation and builds on beautiful three-part harmonies. This record may not have a stand-out single like their previous albums, but it represents the group’s most mature songwriting effort to date.
As the ladies tour and support this record, look for them to appear in more mainstream musical circles. Their music definitely should not be limited to the ears of folk-music connoisseurs.
The Handsome Family, Last Days of Wonder
This is essential listening for any folk or country fan. Brett and Rennie Sparks have been around for a while now, but this album represents a whole new plateau in their output.
These songs create a new genre of “suburban gothic” songwriting, where the mundane suddenly appears magical and a little sinister. Brett’s arrangements incorporate a wide range of non-traditional sounds to go with his incomparable baritone voice.
The Handsome Family have always flown a bit under the radar, and it seems as if they like it that way. If they keep making records like this one, though, they will not remain in relative obscurity for long. Hopefully, making Folk101’s Top 10 list for 2006 will be the first step.
Jeffrey Foucault, Ghost Repeater
One of the most affecting and poignant voices to appear on a CD this year. In addition, Foucault’s lyrics are poetic. His guitar-playing strikes a balance between precision and lushness.
Overall, this record inspires listeners to tap their feet and pause for a moment to think about the world that surrounds them.
Another record that has not been able to bridge the cap between traditional folk circles and a more general, commercial audience. Nevertheless, such a strong effort will eventually transcend ideas of genre and win over new listeners.
Fresh off his win of Best Singer-Contemporary at the 2006 Canadian Folk Music Awards, Jim Byrnes' latest record will hopefully receive a few second-listens in the coming year.
His voice is truly spellbinding, weaving emotion and renewed relevance into several traditional spirituals. Unfortunately, like many great artists, being a member of the Canadian folk scene does not exactly open doors to fame and fortune.
However, one note of his deep, passionate voice will make you think that you are back in a small country church, clapping along with the choir.
Kris Delmhorst, Strange Conversation
The second album on our list that also made Folk101’s Top 10 list for the year. The lack of praise and appreciation of this album is perhaps the greatest critical injustice of the past twelve months.
After receiving flattering reviews across the board, this record somehow fell off the radar when it came time for singling out musicians for year-end recognition.
From personal experience, I know that literally the first note on this record will make you stop and listen intently.
Strange Conversation is one of 2006’s best because of Delmhorst’s arresting vocal performance, her inspired use of literary texts, and the fact that there is not a throwaway track on the disc.
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