Search - Spirit Of The West :: Faithlift

David O. (ducky) from STONE MTN, GA
Reviewed on 4/3/2011...

This is a Vancouver, Canada rock band that mixes it up with a Celtic influence. The veteran band Spirit of the West (this is their sixth release) goes for more of a rock edge with Faithlift. It's an evolution not unlike fellow Canadians Blue Rodeo. The act still injects a healthy does of Celtic influences, though, on songs like the sprightly "Sadness Grows" or the lazy "Sincerely Yours." Lead singer John Mann's lyrics are amusing, insightful and, yet, down to earth. He's adept at writing dark moody pieces like "Bone of Contention" or "Mum's the Word." The latter is a somewhat jarring track, featuring the clever, heartbreaking lyrical twist on the song's title and a tortured guitar solo from Hugh McMillan. Mann also shines on lighter fare like the sweetly romantic "And If Venice Is Sinking" with the music building to a joyous, horn-tinged stomp and a lovely singalong on the final chorus. Literate and melodic, Faithlift is worth a listen for listeners who appreciate a healthy dose of substance but want some pop-sense style, as well. by Tom Demalon To listen to a sample, go here:
http://www.allmusic.com/album/faithlift-r212455

Interesting, original, a good buy.

Dominik Dabrowski | 06/05/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Ever since first hearing And If Venice Is Sinking when it was first released I had wanted to listen to this CD. But it wasn't until I was at a used CD store in September of 98 that I happened to come across this album and listened to it. I liked what I heard and bought it. Another popular song from Faithlift is Sadness Grows, and just like And If Venice Is Sinking, it is a very catchy tune. But Spirit of the West does not seem to be about catchy tunes. If you listen to this album you will notice that it's real strength lies in the lyrics. Many of the songs also deal with religion so avoid this album if you think you might be offended by somewhat unfavorable references to the church. But if you like metaphorical lyrics with good instrumental backup you should pick this one up. Don't buy it if you are looking for your run of the mill rock."

Simply Amazing.

Michael | Calgary, AB | 09/05/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Simply a Amazing album. This is a album, if you actually listen to the lyrics, which talks about our society. None of the songs sound familiar, this band continues to grow. Unlike most bands, Spirit of the West doesnt feel they need to sound like there previous successful albums in order to grow and sound great. By far, one of the best Spirit of the West albums."