This record is one of the most ambitious concepts to come out of this city in a long time. Featuring nine groups (including noted up-and-comers The Hoots, Poorboy and Modern Man) this compilation album was recorded over one weekend in June of last year at a cabin in Winnipeg Beach.  Unlike many compilations, Beach Station Blues holds up fairly well without the singular vision of a specific band but the flow of the album is somewhat disrupted by the lengthy jam song This Is The Place. That being said there are some true standout artists, including Claire Bones, whose hauntingly serene voice will stop you dead in your tracks and Micah Erenberg’s wholesome toe-tapping fun of Baby Bald Eagle.  Real Love Winnipeg has produced a solid slice of independent Winnipeg bands that helps put both artist and collective on the map.  Keep your eyes peeled for the second installment being recorded summer 2013.

Published in Volume 67, Number 26 of The Uniter (May 29, 2013)