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Sunday, August 3, 2008

CD Review: Cheryl Casselman - Any Road North


Cheryl Casselman - Any Road North
2008, Cheryl Casselman


Cheryl Casselman was inspired to write songs by the late, great Buck Owens. The Oshawa, Ontario native and Newcastle resident grew up with a love of music, and was imbued with an appreciation for classic country. These roots are evident on Any Road North, as Casselman strives to create an album full of sounds she knows and loves.

Any Road North mines modern and classic country sounds for a hybrid that Loretta Lynn would be comfortable with. The fact that it doesn't quite make it isn't for lack of talent. Cheryl Casselman is a decent country vocalist. She carries the trademark slightly nasal sound that was common in country music twenty years ago. There are some strong songs on the album as well. The title track Any Road North is a definite keeper, as is No Miracles Today. In general Any Road North is pleasant.

Cheryl Casselman has a pleasant voice. The songs here are listenable, but there's something missing on Any Road North. I am not sure if it's an energy thing, but Cheryl Casselman just does not sound like she's into the songs she's singing. For that reason its hard to connect to her as the performer, and Any Road North falls somewhat flat. Consequently Any Road North is pleasant but uninspired.

Rating: 2 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Cheryl Casselman at www.cherylcasselman.com, where you can also purchase a copy of Any Road North.

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