Country-influenced Rock: Todd Thibaud's Northern Skies

Todd Thibaud’s Northern Skies is more rock than you typically get from 95North Records, but then again, the country is certainly here. “Three Words” cooks along that country line. “Let It Slide” two-steps up the electric rock.

There’s somewhat of a Matchbox 20 pop rock sense to “Isn’t Love My Friend?” and “On My Own Again,” albeit with a country beat to seal the deal. The guitar riff of “Long Way Down” shakes it for a throw down while bringing out a VH1-ready melody. Thibaud can’t, and shouldn’t, escape the country influence, but it is good to hear those crossover qualities in order to open up this music beyond those who wouldn’t expect to like Country music.

While some songs are bound for those rock stations, there’s plenty of high noon country arrivals. A country train track rhythm picks up “Why Can’t I Explain?” It’s the kind of song that makes you eager to stand by the stage of the town square bandshell waiting to hear Thibaud electrify the grain-elevator-scented air, whiling away the evening with the music.

Thanks to Todd Thibaud and the 95North Records for the review copy.