CD Review: Cross Canadian Ragweed "Happiness and All The Other Things”

CD Review: Cross Canadian Ragweed "Happiness and All The Other Things”
Published: September 4, 2009
RED DIRT

Cross Canadian Ragweed "Happiness and All The Other Things” (Universal South)

Cody Canada, lead singer for Cross Canadian Ragweed, dredges up misery and joy from his life to write some of the most personal and poignant country-rock songs being recorded. The band returns with its seventh studio album, a 12-song reflection on the loneliness of fame and the flashes of happiness that interrupt the sadness.

"Blue Bonnets,” introduced by Canada’s young son, is a touching acoustic ballad about missing his boy and clinging to his innocence when the world lets him down. Canada also likes to air grievances through lyrics about people who’ve wronged, disappointed or cheated him on songs such as "Drag” and "Kick in the Head.” The band caps the album with a piano ballad and a charming hidden track.
While the band’s early albums were lively, frat-country with songs about carnies and smoking marijuana, its sound and songwriting have matured — for the better. The songs are softer with less hard guitars and fewer upbeat numbers. The band relies more on melody, theme and storytelling.

On "Happiness and All the Other Things,” Cross Canadian Ragweed is taking stock of its place in music and refining its sound as the band grows up, watching its fan base grow up with it.

— Ben Scott