SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS – UNCERTAIN COUNTRY

Great Lake Swimmers
Uncertain Country
Fontana North/Cadence Music

Years ago, a friend described the experience of her toddler’s first show. It was Great Lake Swimmers, a band I hadn’t heard of until then. Yet the image of the overjoyed child feeling the music with Lake Ontario as a background stuck in my head, so much so that I bought a ticket before ever hearing them. It was Summer 2007, Great Lake Swimmers were touring North America, and I got to photograph them at an intimate show at Schuba’s Tavern in Chicago, Illinois.

Great Lake Swimmers have occupied a special place in the music of my life since. Their sound is enveloping in both recordings and live shows, and every single one of their songs is beautifully crafted. Tony Dekker’s melodious voice, everyone’s superb instrumentalization, and melancholic vocals make Uncertain Country an instant favourite.

Uncertain Country opens with its solid title track. “When The Storm Has Passed” captured my attention with its upbeat melancholy. “Riverine” is a gem of a song and I could see it transcending genres on the dancefloor. The instrumentalization of “Quiet Before the Storm” is fascinating. Other songs that captured me with their feel were “Promise of Spring” and “Respect for All Living Things”. “Flight Paths” is the one I’ve had on a loop. Every song brings wonder.

After giving Uncertain Country a few listens, I have been going on a journey revising Great Lake Swimmer’s discography. Their essence has been intact through these years and their artistry has reached sublime depths.

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