The press release included with this CD calls Andy Bishop (who is White Ash Falls) “one of Vancouver’s most sought-after sidemen,” but that should soon change. With his sophomore solo effort Over The Night, Bishop makes it clear that there’s no reason for him to be relegated to the side of the stage. He deserves to be right up at the front.
It seems like a mostly country record, due in no small part to Bishop’s twangy, wavering vocals, but that would be simplifying it too much. There are elements of gospel (“I Have Been Received”), ‘70s rock (“When She Rides”), hit-the-road honky-tonk (“Lock The Door”), and straight-up, down-home, foot-stomping blues (“Ain’t It Gone My Home”). Like a lot of seasoned sidemen and session players, Bishop clearly has a kung-fu grip on production and arrangement, both of which feel organic, meticulously crafted, and lush without being muddled. A laundry list of solid collaborators, such as Louise Burns (ex-Lillix), Erin Passmore (Rah Rah), and three members of Yukon Blonde does the album no disservice either.
All of these elements come together best on “That List Is Too Long,” a slow burning waltz that floats along on thick organ tremolo, leading each verse to a knock-out chorus heavy on crystal clear harmonies, with Bishop’s big voice calling down the spotlight, eyes to the sky. (Light Organ Records, whiteashfalls.com) Matt Williams