Top local releases of 2002
Local finest

by Mike Bell
Calgary Sun

At times, using the word "local" as an adjective for a musician can seem a little patronizing.

It can sound kind of like, "What a good little local performer you are!" or "For a local artist, you're just super!" as though it's some kind of handicap or affliction that's been overcome.

Sometimes that's true, but more often than not, when talking about the musicians in this city, it's a sign of pride, like, "Of course you're from here."

So keep that in mind when reading this list, because although none of them made it to my Top 10 albums of the year, all of them can more than stand up compared with other national and international releases from 2002.

This list is merely making sure they get the mention they should.

1. YOU SHOULD KNOW BY NOW — Lorrie Matheson: The former National Dust frontman goes it alone and grows into his own with this whipsmart collection of roots rock. Matheson sounds like a countrified Lloyd Cole, as he shows off his knack for wordplay and melody with these 11 predominantly electric tracks.

2. LARK — Kris Demeanor: The quirkiest artist this city has ever produced also shows how accessible he can be with this full-length album of catchy folk pop oddities. From terribly touching to terrifically funny, Demeanor's a true original.

3. THE ESSENTIAL — Tom Phillips & The Men of Constant Sorrow: Phillips and his crew craft an old-school, slow-stepping country album heavy on the twang and unafraid of emotion. It's as simple and inviting as an open road, with just as many rewards to be found during the journey.

4. VAN GUNDY — The Minks: While it only hints at how superb a live act The Minks are, this album still captures enough of the infectious charm and enthusiasm of the great indie rock trio.

5. FLYTRAP — The Fly: A cool, funky groove of a concept record that mixes samples with an assortment of stellar city musicians for a very cinematic listening experience.

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ROUNDING OUT THE TOP 10

The Neckers' A Whole Mess O' Trouble, Chantal Vitalis' Today's Special, Ralph Boyd Johnson's Dyin' To Go, Anne Loree's roAr and Wil's exceptional Both Hands.

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2003-01-03