By Nathan Pike Sometimes I feel so horoured to be given the task of listening to new music, and in turn, lending a few words
of praise where they are due. With this first full length by Vancouver's Tuck, titled Lullabies and Other Lies, I
heap kudos by the truckload.
It's rare that an album pulls me in at first blush, but Tuck has a special quality to it that warms me to the cockles
and charms me to no end. With its rich beauty and solid backing of seasoned musicians, featuring members of the Parlour
Steps, The Phoenix Chamber Choir and The West Coast Symphony. Tuck brings forth a collection of songs culled from the
progressive classicfolk-rock songbook.
The album opens on a strong note with the instantly catchy "Watering Line". It is a bouncy little number showcasing sweet
vocal harmonies, warm organ backing, full bodied strings and a little clarinet for good measure, all tied together with
Amos Ashurst's unique sand-dosed manuka honey vocals. It's a steady incline from here as the album gently winds through
phases of rock, blues and a quaint, almost campy vibe in its folk element. This is a great debut and a welcome addition to
any music collection.