Greatest Hits Volume 1

Fifteen years of marriage is a lifetime for many people to contemplate and to survive over this time as a band is even more beguiling. Through nine releases, Blue Rodeo have remained consistently astute in observing the human condition and extolling the joy and pain, virtue and gain, in believing in a better day tomorrow. Despite the poignant tales of loss and heartbreak, there beats a quiet optimism in the soaring vocals and dynamic musicianship that raise the listening experience to new levels.

Greatest Hits Volume 1 draws from seven releases in the history of Blue Rodeo and for every great song included here, there are many more omitted. Still, whether a confirmed fan or coming to the band for the first time, this is a wonderful gift to unwrap and enjoy. The songwriting skills of Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor have been the mainstay of Blue Rodeo since the beginning and it’s good to know that the quality has never waned. Ballads such as ‘Bad Timing’ and ‘Dark Angel’ show the beauty of a song in expressing universal sentiment and the full power of the band can be heard on songs like ‘Till I Am Myself Again’ and ‘It Could Happen To You’. Personal favourites are the standout ‘Lost Together’ and ‘After The Rain’ with harmonies, melody and guitar breaks to die for. Don’t just take my word for it; see for yourself when the band play Whelan’s on May 15th next. An experience not to be missed and this CD is an essential purchase for any serious collector.