It appears that Canada, especially Nova Scotia, has reaped the rich rewards of a musical heritage deeply rooted in both the age-old folk melodies of the Celtic fringes and the vibrant, earthy sounds of their southern neighbours. If I’m allowed to indulge in a bit of armchair theorizing, it seems that Callehan has emerged as the torchbearer of this unique geographic fusion.
Their latest offering, “The Four Winds,” stands as a testament to this theory, an exquisite blend of folk Americana laced with the spirited trill of the fiddle, courtesy of the talented Ashley MacIssac. This musical tapestry is woven with the pulsating rhythm of tattooed drum beats and the gritty strumming of guitars, with the faint echo of a mandolin or banjo lurking just beneath the surface, adding a subtle yet essential texture to the whole affair.
But wait, flip the record over, and you’ll be treated to the unfiltered essence of Callehan in its natural state. “Ignore History” exudes a sense of both optimism and maturity, an anthem advocating for the acceptance of the futility of present-day political divisions. It’s a call to set aside the pointless squabbles, crack open a cold one together, and bridge our differences through more worthwhile pursuits—namely, the communal joys of shared libations and the soothing power of music. It’s a philosophy I’m inclined to raise a glass to.
