Even Canadians Get the Blues

AMG Review of Even Canadians Get the Blues

Ken Dryden
All Music Guide

Rob McConnell & the Boss Brass tackle a mostly lues-oriented program for these 1996 sessions, with five originals by the leader, in addition to tunes by others. "Even Canadians Get the Blues" is a lively shout type tune in the mold of Woody Herman's ig band showcasing trumpeter Steve McDade and tenor saxophonist Alan Dean. While "The Clarinet Is Black and Blue" isn't technically, a lues, it has a bluesy air, with Moe Kauffman's melancholy clarinet backed by the lush ensembles, which often include a choir of four additional clarinets. Boss Brass alum Ian McDougall contributed the breezy lues "Do You Mean It?" that puts the spotlight on pianist Dave Restivo, flugelhornist John McLeod, and alto saxophonist John Johnson. The upbeat "The Shuffle Boogie Swamp Groove Blue" adds guest Doug Riley on organ, while the date closes with a brief, lush rendition of the Canadian National Anthem, "O Canada." McConnell's liner notes are often amusing, as is his cover photo pose as a drunken Canadian Mountie passed out draped over a piano.