SOUND BITES

It's been almost a decade since the world was graced with a new Weakerthans record, so John K. Samson's second solo record (third if you count a 1993 cassette) carries a certain stigma; the one that makes me think, "well, I guess this will have to do". Of course, this is completely unfair, as this record doesn't aspire to compare to those records in any way, despite two of Samson's Weakerthans band mates appearing here; it's a much more subdued affair, even more so than Samson's previous solo platter (2012's Provincial ). The sparse arrangements allow for Samson's lyrics to shine, though, and this has always been his primary strength; his stories, fictional or otherwise, brim with intelligence and imagination. So, even though I'll keep patiently waiting for the fifth Weakerthans album that may never arrive, Winter Wheat serves as a reminder that Samson is right up there with Gord Downie as one of our nation's most formidable poets. ...

From the time he stepped out as bassist for Propagandhi and formed the Weakerthans, John K. Samson has been steadily building a reputation for being a quality songwriter and witty lyricist.  Indeed, the Weakerthans' last two albums (2003's breakthrough Reconstruction Site and 2007's more polished Reunion Tour ) are among the last decade's most enjoyable and intelligent rock platters.  The frustrating part about being a fan of Samson's work is just how it takes to get more of it.  Sure, there are other bands that take a long time between records, but I'm not about to let Tool off the hook for their sluggish pace anytime soon.  With a measly two albums released in the last nine years (and five since the last), one can understand how hotly anticipated a new Weakerthans album has been. Well, we're probably not getting that this year, although Samson has finally amassed enough songs to release his first official solo album.  Although, if we're splittin...