As this crazy year comes to an end, should we banish forever the popular phrase, “Hindsight is 2020?” Should these words be outlawed? Struck from the books and all future conversations? No matter where you stand in relation to this rotten apple of a year, never forget that it was still a very productive year for Canadian artists, with some stunning new releases being shared to help us all cope and survive during a global pandemic.
With our final posting for 2020 scheduled for tomorrow, Martin plans to share his Final Four Albums of the Year, but for now, here are the 2020 favorite albums from the rest of the GDW team:
Andy Shauf: “The Neon Skyline”
“Characters who reside in his songs are far from perfect specimens of our human tribe, but relatable distillations of troubled souls we all know.” (Steve Murphy)
Cayley Thomas: “How Else Can I Tell You?”
“My ears were met with the undeniable signature sound and unique arrangements that I’ve come to know and enjoy from this artist.” (Jess Lahr)
Daniel Belanger: “Travelling”
“A complete contrast to ‘Paloma,’ this instrumental album is no doubt the movie soundtrack for this bizarre year. Think big band music, delivered in a 21st century style.” (Lesley Carter)
Dione Taylor: “Spirits In The Water”
“Dione has a very distinct style, which has been described as ‘Prairie Blues,’ and has a lot of influences from Roots, Blues and Americana; the theme running through is very powerful.” (Stevie Connor)
Lynne Hanson: “Just Words”
“Every song is a gem of musical proficiency. From the songwriting through to the gorgeous production, this is an album to cherish and treasure.” (Douglas McLean)
And Martin also feels that there are a few honorable mentions to be made as we close out 2020:
- Breakthrough Solo Artist of the Year: Jess Knights
- Breakthrough Group of the Year: The Hello Darlins
- Single of the Year: The Blaze Velluto Collection, “Fish Mountain Pt. 2”
- Cover Version of the Year: July Talk, “Laid”
- Music Video of the Year: Orville Peck ft. Shania Twain, “Legends Never Die”
Best wishes for 2021, from all of us here at Great Dark Wonder.
