Blue Rodeo is a summer favorite. But here the veteran Canadian band brings its rootsy vibe to wintry songs, including Jim Cuddy’s new “Home To You This Christmas.” The group also delivers such superb covers as a chiming take on Big Star’s “Jesus Christ,” a warm rendition of Gordon Lightfoot’s “Song for a Winter’s Night” and a stirring version of The Band’s “Christmas Must Be Tonight.”
Over the course of 30 years, Blue Rodeo has built a loyal following of fans drawn to memorable songs and the warm harmonies of frontmen Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor. In 1993, the beloved Canadian alt-country rockers decamped to Keelor’s farm and recorded what many consider to be their best album: Five Days in July, a sunny collection with a communal feel that featured friends like Sarah McLachlan. Last fall, the 11-time Juno Award winners and Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductees returned to Keelor’s rural home and once again harvested pure gold. Says Cuddy: “It was apparent right away that it was going to be a good vibe record.” Songs like Cuddy’s shimmering “New Morning Sun” and Keelor’s hope...
