Music /Album Reviews

Saskatchewan’s “Retro Man” Jake Vaadeland’s bluegrass-powered debut is an instant classic

Old school country sound is fresh and authentic from young Prairie singer-songwriter

By: Michael Hollett

Jake Vaadeland :

Retro Man… More and More Expanded Version

Genre: Bluegrass

Sound: Sounds of ’30s Appalachia updated and authentic for today
If you like: Jimmie Rodgers, The Sadies, Johnny Cash
Best track: Be a Farmer or a Preacher
Release: Now
Rating: NNNNN
Why you should listen: We’ve had our eye on Saskatchewan’s Jake Vaadeland and his band, the Sturgeon River Boys, since their dazzling Toronto debut at the Cameron House at NXNE 2021, a festival highlight that year. We’ve taken every opportunity to see him live across the country ever since — and never been disappointed.

Like fellow Western Canadian k. d. laing was, long before him, Vaadeland is inspired by a form of classic country that he updates and makes his own. To call Vaadeland an old soul is an understatement, he might be a time-traveller, a Depression-era singing Arkansas radio host plopped into the 21^st century. He even does fake ads in the middle of his live shows — or are those ads for a Saskatchewan tire company real? But Jake and the boys are not a nostalgia act, their music is vital and fresh, making this unapologetically retro sound their own.

Just barely in his 20s, with slicked-back hair and even slicker suits, both of which he justifiably brags about in song, Vaadeland never breaks character with his heartfelt, endearingly corny approach that is also deep and soulful. Some tracks are as mournful and lonely as a chilling Prairie wind, others fun and fresh like a spring dance social, all powered by expert playing and his gorgeous voice. The Sturgeon River Boys ably help out and buy into the vibe, suits and all. Stephen William thumps a friendly stand-up bass, on which Vaadeland sometimes does stand up during their shows, with Joel Rohs on electric guitar and ever-smiling Jaxon Lalonde on banjo, an instrument Vaadeland also expertly plays. There’s plenty of instrument sharing with requisite pickin’ and a grinnin’, and it can all feel like the best front-porch jam or the kind of music folks would play together when they got home from church on a pleasant Sunday afternoon.

Vaadeland is taking the next step from promising indie with his debut, full album release now part of the quality Arts and Crafts label. Vaadeland remains one of the best rising Canadian talents today, capable of grabbing a massive international following, just like lang once did.

See them live and, until then, dig into this excellent new album from this extremely talented new star. And folks, don’t be surprised if Jake finds a way to thank you personally for your time. He might even send your mother flowers — he certainly would if he could.