Small Town & Big Dreams [Live]

First, I was a bit annoyed that I didn't get a chance to see him on his Small Towns tour. I recall that he drove all across Canada in his 'Canadian Man Van', while occasionally stopping for a 'double double' at Tim Horton's. Anyway, I didn't get a chance to see him because he completely avoided all major cities in Canada, but simply went to the small towns which are always overlooked by other musicians. The result is a very intimate album that incorporates an appreciative and enthusiastic audience.

Since some of his best songs on Calm Before the Storm, I have not heard anything from Paul as unique and innovative as some of the songs found on this album. The first single, Canadian Man, gives a comical and romantic spin on the every-day Canadian stereotype, and although not written by Paul, the song could not have been put together or sung so magnificently by any other artist. However, the problem with this song is that it is not live and therefore sticks out like soar thumb. I feel the album loses some effect or at least the song loses some effect with it's inclusion.

One thing I despise in live albums is over-editing, which I find to be a tiny problem on this CD. The Tragically Hip had a great idea by selecting songs from only one concert with which to make their live album. When songs are chosen from various concerts you may notice a change in momentum or a different 'vibe' from one song to the next. To suppress this many live albums fade out or in between songs, which really takes you out of the moment, and this CD is no exception. I especially despise the moment in Small Towns when they play Paul singing the names of 10 or so towns he has visited. It sounds really wonky and over done.

I'm Gonna Fly, Take it Off, If Cry if You Want To, and Virgil and the Holy Ghost incorporate intimate and original writing, while songs such as When You Call My Name, The Longest Way, It's All Good and Warm Sunny Beaches benefit from being positively "Paul Brandt" in nature. However, the latter two lose momentum with rather simple lyrics.

In conclusion, Paul Brandt has always been a great Canadian artist, but this album and tour succeeded in bringing out his best in a way that only a live setting can accomplish. His powerful voice needs no editing and his wife Liz singing back-up makes for great harmonization. He's an artist I've simply grown up with here in Alberta and for me has always represented the best in human nature and Canadian music.

I've had the pleasure of seeing Paul once in concert, and the performance was impecable. His live vocals are as good as the CD, unlike many performers out there. Every song he has ever released has been awesome, there are no bad songs on a CD of his. There is no such thing as a "filler" song to Paul, every song on his CD is great. This is a CD you can put on when your mad, sad, or anywhere in between, it's guaranteed to lift your spirits. The messages are deep, the lyrics are powerful, the music will make you laugh, cry, dance, sing, and all in all you will feel warm inside.

Even if your not a country music fan, you'll love it. I also listen to music like eminem, 50 cent, Dmx, so believe me, it can touch all audiences. Paul's music is pure, genuine, honest, and it will bring you hope and encouragement in life. It will leave you with a positive attitude and instill into your heart that love and peace is important and very much attainable in today's world of violence and corrupton. Overall Paul's music is very spirited and uplifting, an influence that we need more of in today's world.

KEEP IT COMING PAUL, CAN'T WAIT UNTIL YOUR NEXT ALBUM!!!