Linda McLean

CD: No Language
(Bongo Beat Records)

EXCLAIM MAGAZINE REVIEW FEB 2006

Linda McLean, No Language (Bongo Beat) country, pop, roots

This Northern Ontario-based songstress earned critical kudos in Europe when her debut CD, Betty's Room, was released there on the respected Rounder label. This follow-up showcases her growth as a songwriter, while the attractive warmth of her pure vocals remains intact. Her material straddles the line between roots stylings (as on opening cut "Love Nor Money") and an adult contemporary-tinged sound à la Jann Arden or Sarah McLachlan (tracks like "Almost Alien" and "Calling"). Fortunately things never get too polished, as an ace group of accompanists keep things real. The featured players are Gary Craig (Bruce Cockburn), Maury Lafoy, and guitarist/co-writer/industry veteran Andy McLean, while producer John Whynot (Blue Rodeo, Cockburn) adds keyboards. McLean's lyrics are gently introspective and reflective, and they possess the ring of hard-earned truths, rather than the facile musings of so many of her younger peers. A very pleasing effort.

Kerry Doole, Exclaim Magazine

Back to Reviews.