Spun: Zachary Lucky

By Susan Anderson

You’ll have a pretty good idea of what you are getting into from the title of this album, but don’t underestimate it. This isn’t just another sappy harrowing of worn love ballads. While this isn’t an album to reach for when you want an upbeat, get-the-day-started groove, it is great for a quiet, introverted, moody day when you’re looking for some excellent acoustic guitar playing with pensive, longing lyrics. Fiddle and banjo round out the sound.

Zachary Lucky is a 24-year-old Saskatchewan native. He started recording in 2009 — this album is his sixth release, following two albums and three EPs.

Lucky’s deep, mature voice makes him sound much older than his years — so does the weathered, experienced quality in his lyrics.

The album sounds like it comes straight from harvest time on a grain farm in rural Saskatchewan, or the songs heard in a road-side bar. If you’ve ever thought that what passes for country music today isn’t real country music, try Lucky. His honest, soulful sound will haunt you and remind you of what country and western music was originally conceived a
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“Sun’s Coming Up” was my favourite song on the album, with a lonesome tale about a family who is no longer together.

“Merry Month of May” is about longing for a girl and is the perfect slow, sad break up song with a mix of banjo and guitar. “After All The Months We’ve Shared” is a moving waltz about losing a true love.

Again, if you’re looking for anything fast-paced, or particularly happy, skip over The Ballad of Losing You. But if you are looking for deep, mournful baritone and soul-softening guitar, this album is for you.