Grade: B-
Canadian pop band Barenaked Ladies have been though some big changes recently, namely the loss of former front-man Steven Page. But the rest of the band has soldiered on and tried to make this record a fresh start. The majority of the songs on All in Good Time find the band in a mature and contemplative mood, yet the songs that shine most brightly are the ones that play to their old strengths.
“Four Seconds” is a fast-talking polka featuring hilarious jazz fills and break-beats. “Summertime” is an extremely catchy ode to everyone’s favourite season, and one of the best songs by anyone so far this year. If nothing else, check out those two songs.
The other tracks are all hummable and enjoyable but a bit bland on the whole. You won’t regret having given them a listen, but it’s the upbeat tracks that will keep you coming back for more. They still have a way to go to get out from underneath the shadow of their work with Steven Page, but they’ve almost got there.
