Starting in May I was hoping to provide a new video blog (or “vlog”, but shoot me if I ever say that aloud) on a weekly basis.  Unfortunately I have been unable to do that, mainly due to other work that I’m doing for andPOP (so it’s a good thing!).  So, in lieu of a video this week, here is my first installment of what I hope will be soon be a cherished feature of Side B:  In The Stereo.   This will be my opportunity to tell you, dear reader, what record is currently in my stereo and how I feel about it.  And what a better way to start than with my favourite album of all time?

One Chord To Another by Sloan (1996)

Sloan’s third album is considered to be one of the strongest Canadian albums of all time (#34 of the top 100, by one account).  Some feel that it also marks the peak of Sloan’s long and still ongoing music career, but that’s a separate matter.  During the 90′s grunge era, Sloan caught the attention of Geffen Records (owned by Universal) and landed a major label record deal.  However, like any good major-label-vs.-rock-band story, they were dropped after two (amazing) releases, basically because they weren’t making music that sounded enough like Nirvana.  The band almost broke up, but instead independently released One Chord To Another.  I didn’t buy the record till about 2002, and it was only by mistake.  The clerk at HMV said I’d like it.  She was right.

One Chord is at first very reminiscent of the Beatles circa Rubber Soul, mostly due to the innocent harmonies and relatively lo-fi production quality.   As with most Sloan records, all four members contribute songs, but their collaboration is most successful on this album, producing a cohesive sound and feel that is perfect for the lyrical and musical content.  One Chord features some of Sloan’s cleverest lyrics, especially on Autobiography, which plays on words without compromising its earnest credibility.  The organic, vintage vibe makes for honest and passionate songs of different styles – from rockers like The Good In Everyone to ballads like Junior Panthers to the ineffible A Side Wins.

Needless to say, I love every second of One Chord, and I highly reccommend it.  I think it’s rare for an indie album to be both accessible and artistically compelling, so check this one out and get hooked on Sloan.

Related posts:

1. New song from Chord Overstreet, ‘Beautiful Girl’
2. Carmen Reece and Mark Feist Team Up For Love In Stereo
3. Review: Astound Stereo Expander for Macintosh

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