Kick Axe

Welcome To The Club (Rewind/Sony)
by Martin Popoff

Hot on the heels of the reissue of the band’s more-than-classic debut, Rewind has finally given graceful treatment to this interesting Saskatchewan band’s ’85 follow-up, the second of three albums by the band. Welcome To The Club is less godly than the debut barnstormer, and suffers from a bit of a wide, echoey, drafty recording, but there are many gems. Leader amongst them being the complex, bluesy title track, featuring a theatrical performance from expert vocal technician George Criston and a catchy flamenco-tinged riff. As well, there’s a heady, emotional cover of “With A Little Help From My Friends” which became a minor hit for the band. Ballad “Never Let Go” is also strong and Zeppelin-grand. Definitely demonstrating a creative verve as well as a will to take chances, Welcome To The Club ages well. Note: Also included, excellent liner notes, rare photos and a complete discography.
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