Rheostatics Tribute: The Secret Sessions

This loving tribute to a seminal band is a testament to just how close-knit the musical community can be in Canada. Secret Sessions covers The Rheostatics' vast discography, and was recorded and produced under the radar as a surprise for the band. It's also a surprise for the rest of us, since the contributing artists include Weeping Tile and The Local Rabbits, defunct bands who both reformed long enough to record their tributes. Most of these covers are pretty faithful, yet stand strongly on their own. Highlights include Cuff The Duke's rendition of "Claire," The Weakerthans' "Bad Time To Be Poor" and The Inbreds' "Dope Fiends And Booze Hounds." King Cobb Steelie remixed "Seven Stars," while Dylan Hudecki's delivery of "Satan Is The Whistler" is reinterpreted to the point of being unrecognizable. The Barenaked Ladies got an entire arena of their fans to sing the chorus to "Legal Age Life At Variety Store." The breadth of talent is staggering, and their love and respect for the dissolving Rheostatics permeate each track. It's almost enough to make a Can-rock fan cry.