I have always believed that The Constantines would be the Jesus of Canadian music. Case in point: The Tree Streets, the Matthew or Thaddeus (although maybe not Simon Peter or James the Greater) of indie-rock discipleship whose minimal instrument arrangements frame up blues/funk-based rawk on sophomore release "Right to Stand".

Anyone remember the early days of Saskatoon's Jr. Pantherz? No? Whatever... "Right to Stand" echoes "Ballistics" territory five years later, only proving that the techniques and instrumentation developed then are (like all great artistic geniuses) experiencing their due (albeit belated) surge of appreciation. This Hendrix-like homage to all great blues-rock of the 60's was bound to happen sooner or later in this the post-Bush age of North America. Back to our "roots"?

The Tree Streets are good. They're tight. They have the chops to go the distance, but they've just started to toe the starting line and are still figuring out if they are all on the same musical page or not. Nine songs of enjoyment is an excellent offering, yet only "Mothers & Fathers" and "White Girl" are memorable enough to deserve a mention in this review.

They are largely a bass-driven band - Dave Russell's musical muscle of choice - and whether acoustic or electric, the melodies are carried through the classic vein of Crosby, Nash and Young (causing all sets of Canuck ears to perk up), awakening the joyful ghost of bluesy Canadiana 60's rock. The Tree Streets still in the ripening stages as this is only their second release, but perhaps third time's a charm?

Track Listing:

1) Never Enough
2) Caught Look'n
3) White Girl
4) Rocking Chair
5) Beggers Can't Be Choosers
6) Love Is For Losers
7) Beside You
8) Where The Colour Go
9) Mothers & Father