More than just an art or a hobby, music is a lifestyle for Gord, and his guitar is an extension of the artist that he is. When he strikes those chords, he surrenders a part of him, allowing the driving, relentless riffs as well as the charming, scene-stealing solos to speak on his behalf, and talk they do! Gord has been able to forge his own musical planet—one that is seriously awe-inspiring and picturesque. As a songwriter, he pens tracks that become the voices of others, allowing them to express emotions, tales, and dreams that resonate with listeners worldwide. His newest album, themed “Rollin,” which has received a positive reception, is a testament to the reach and resonance of his artistry, appealing to a vast global audience and etching a permanent mark in the ever-evolving music landscape.
12 tracks spanning 46 minutes and 54 seconds, “Rollin’” is a testament release that captures the essence of life’s ups and downs, personal losses and victories, adversities and resilience, and that persistent perseverance that rests at the touchdown of excellence. Even that cover art is a thing of cinematic beauty that demands the attention of a listener before they can wallow right into the music.
The title track “Rollin” is a high-energy, riff-peppered masterpiece with a presence. This track exudes the kind of head-banging and feet-throwing energy that’s perfect for those moshpit concerts where all caution is thrown to the wind as you move with carefree abandon. An energy-surrendering performance, the track is as empowering as it is tenacious, capturing the essence of picking yourself up, braving through the storm, and rolling on. Emotionally charged with a personal and universal accessibility, this was the perfect track to set the tone for the entire album that seamlessly unfolds like a true-life-inspired film.
“Built to Crumble” is another earworming tour de force with a rhythmic cadence that makes it memorable and infectious. Gord showcases such refined skills as a guitarist, the riffs and solos as the song progresses, a powerful testament to his fingerpicking prowess. His vocals carry that roots timbre and the stylistic caliber of a musical genius of yesteryears. Lyrically, this track captures the ephemeral quality of everything surrounding us with the catchy lines, “These days things are built to crumble,” encapsulating the track’s theme. It is fascinating how the somewhat serious theme of the jam contrasts beautifully with the liveliness of the song.
“Same Shit Different Pile” captures cynical realism in a pretty blunt and somewhat humorous way as Gord acknowledges that life often throws us variations of the same old problems, just in new packaging. Exuding such a cathartic release, this jam is a symbolic recognition of the idea that jobs, relationships, and especially societal systems may seem different on the surface, but at their core, they function similarly and come with the same challenges.
“Camp Fire” is a more optimistic anthem that celebrates those good moments when everything is going alright—camped up around a warm fire somewhere, sipping some bottles of beer over great music, shared laughs as you enjoy life’s blossom whilst feeling nothing but happy, blessed, and gratified.
“Where Have All the Good Ones” is anthemic; the kind that leaves a glowing aftertaste long after the final notes melt away. The last jam, “Take It All,” is actually over 6 minutes long, but it doesn’t feel like it because of the way it is immersive and transcendental, reeling a listener in from that striking instrumental buildup at its core down to the passionate execution Gord surrenders as he wears his heart on his sleeve to pull at a listener’s heartstrings with his dedication, passion, and vocal brilliance.
An experience worth relishing, “Rollin” is the kind of rock collection that you randomly get recommended, and after listening to it, you thank the heavens for choosing you.
With that said, how about you enjoy this stunning body of work from an artist who is always on the front foot when it comes to creating great music with replay value?
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