Bob Lanois Snake Road CD - Import

Although the length of Snake Road might suggest an EP, Bob Lanois has made the most out of that duration. A pretty, scenic, and tranquil instrumental like "The Vampire" makes the EP come to life immediately. The song contains harmonica, guitar, and piano and seems suited for a walk through a dense forest. With Bob Lanois assisted by his brother, acclaimed producer and musician Daniel Lanois, the songs were inspired by Daniel's Québecois roots. And that gentle vibe is a common thread throughout. However, genre-wise, Snake Road tends to go all over the map, with the impressive light and island-tinged title track flowing perfectly as if it were a dub reggae effort. The lone problem might be that it leaves you wanting more. From there, Lanois makes inroads with a thoughtful, jazz-accented lullaby called "Rendezvous," but the ensuing "Spaceshack" it a tad too, well, spacy for most ears. The ethereal feeling is brought down to earth with Bob Lanois' harmonica-playing during the number, which grows on the listener. Just as cheerful is the calm "My Mother's Waltz," which sounds like its roots are in a Scottish hillside. Although his brother tapped into this style with albums like Acadie, Bob Lanois is just as capable during the Cajun-laced "Le Draveur," which is unfortunately much too short. It's the relaxed, laid-back tone of the record that makes it work quite well, especially with the roots-centered "Negril," which brings to mind Mark Knopfler. ~ Jason MacNeil

Brother of Daniel Lanois, and multi-disciplinary artist in his own right. 2006 album of original material. Accompanied by his brother, he explores the traditions of his Quebecois roots, as filtered through the prism of modern life in Toronto.