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In the spirit of storytellers before him, Matthew de Zoete’s new album, Bottom of the World, takes us on a musical journey of his life and experience. A proud Ontarian, de Zoete’s beautiful melodies and exquisite guitar reflect his experiences, which resonates throughout the album. Perhaps some of this could be the recording setting, a 100-year-old barn in Caistor Centre that’s been converted into a studio. In order to capture a live feel, the band – including of Paul VanDyk on upright bass and Dave King on drums – recorded a lot of the album live off the floor.

In “I’m a Sailor,” de Zoete realistically conveys the pain of a weary traveller who longs to be home someday. The song, like the rest of the album, is beautiful in its simplicity and conveys the passion and pain of being separated from the one you love – perfect music for a warm fire (and someone special).

While filled with country undertones, de Zoete’s music is much like that of his Canadian predecessors Blue Rodeo. In songs such as “Warkworth Penitentiary,” he lets us into his life as a boy and shows he’s able to find that balance between contemporary and country, all with a uniquely Canadian sound.

Other notably tracks include “The World Was Around,” a soft melody that describes a person’s awakening to life’s reality as well as “Remembrance Day,” which serves as a tribute to the sacrifice of Canadian soldiers in battles such as Vimy Ridge. Another highlight is the guest vocals of Jenn Grant who sings with de Zoete on “Not on Fire.”

Especially with a song like “Bottom of the World,” de Zoete proves that the tradition of Canadian storytelling married with wonderful melodies will continue strong.

Sound like your cup of tea? Grab a copy of Bottom of the World on iTunes or cdbaby.com, or, better yet, come by his show on Saturday (February 28) at the TRANZAC. The show also features The DoneFors and Nina Nielsen.

Review by Lisa Simundson