Geoff Gibbons

Inspired by a recent pilgrimage through the cradle of American music, Vancouver singer-songwriter, Geoff Gibbons has written an album of laid-back Americana tunes that tell the many tales of the people and characters he's met along the way. After making his way through Nashville, Memphis, and Muscle Shoals, Gibbons has brought back with him the flavours of the south. Not only the country roots but the gospel of Alabama and Louisiana Creole culture. This gives Buffalo Hotel the feel of a true road album rather than a record pinned to a time and place. Gibbons songs are empathetic yet stoic. Wistful yet determined to keep moving on. The songs have the backbone of traditional acoustic-based country rock with accordion or choir brought in on certain tracks to give them their own special spice. Gibbons' voice maintains a homespun drawl, never quite slipping into a country honk.

Lead track 'Ain't Goin' Back' has the unhurried pace of a Glenn Frey Eagles tune. Pedal steel and smooth harmonies help you to drift away to the breezy tune. 'Lonesome Angel' takes on a Highwayman groove. The song of a man in a grimy black duster and a black cowboy hat. 'Me and Buffalo Bill' feels like The Band with its shuffling beat and descending lines. The organ and accordion intertwine like old friends catching up after years apart. Late album track and possibly most fascinating, 'Picture of Adeline' has the most haunting vibe of the album with a story of treason and betrayal. The Creole accordion over the minor chords lends this tune the tragic air of a French melodrama.

Buffalo Hotel is a well-crafted collection of songs that embrace the roots and traditions of many of America's signature styles and weave them together to tell a book full of interconnected stories.