The SHuckers - The Shuckers

The Shuckers

The Shuckers
self-released; 2013

3.7 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The album cover for The Shuckers recent self-titled The Shuckers is just about perfect when comparing it to the music. When I hear the Canadian folk/roots/bluegrass music of this three-piece it evokes imagery of the sunset, the rustic simple living and plains as far as the eye can see. This is music that feels timeless in a sense. It feels as pure as the dirt beneath your feet and the water from the river. The combination of guitars, mandolin, harmonica and vocal harmonies create warmth inside your soul. It’s good music to put on in the morning to start things off on the right foot. There is opiate-like quality that induces in the listener to make you feel relaxed and not care so much about the little things. So if you haven't perfected your transcendental meditation techniques this may be a good substitute or an addition.

There are some standout tracks amongst the bunch but I never felt the urge to have to skip a track. The Shuckers create a mood and it preserves throughout the duration of the album with slight ebbs and flows.

The album start with “Lonesome Song,” which if it wasn’t for the lyrics felt like a pretty upbeat song. The lyrics explore the familiar topic of lost love. The vocalist sings “Not long ago you were right here by my side / You always said I had to give more of my life / Maybe you were right perhaps I was wrong ‘cause now I’m here singing this lonesome song.” I was humming the melody of “On The Cheatin' Side Of Town” by the second chorus and moving my head back and forth with not even realizing it.

“Ren's Waltz” is a pleasant instrumental track while “So Long, Georgie” had me up out of my chair dancing around the living room. It didn't get much better than “Pieces Of You” for me. The walking bass lines, mandolin and upbeat vocal melody had me within the first 30 seconds.

The Shuckers is a band that just makes you feel good inside. It’s really that simple – so take a listen and enjoy the ride.

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