Read the complete review at Bullz-Eye.com:
Reviewed by Neil Carver
After 26 years together, 11 studio albums and a reputation as one of the best live shows ever, it is a true sign of greatness that the Tragically Hip’s 12th album sounds as fresh, strong and relevant as anything they’ve ever done.
We Are the Same continues where 2006’s World Container left off, still growing the “big sound” brought about by their ongoing association with producer Bob Rock. Where World Container pushed them to the higher and harder edges of anthemic rock, they clearly haven’t forgotten their country influences and lush arrangements. “Morning Moon” starts off with quiet acoustic strumming that bursts into full country electric paralleling the dawn sun that illuminates its cold sister. Gordon Downing states it plainly, “The sun is a light bulb and the moon is a mirror,” one that reflects our disappointments but still lights up our hopes.
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We Are the Same comes full circle with the closing track “Country Day.” Here they draw a conclusion to what was started with “Morning Moon.” Whatever hopes and doubts began in that sunrise, here we find the satisfaction and resolve of the everyman who has worked hard for another day and looks forward to the challenges and possibilities that the next morning will bring. We Are the Same works like that. Put it on repeat and let it cycle through. That is when you realize that this is the soundtrack for all of us, day in and day out. It tells all of our stories with a realistic eye, poignant joy and a happy enthusiasm that belies the age of cynicism it chronicles. The Tragically Hip find a way to sound young after a quarter of a century because they have outgrown the angst and youthful rage most would direct at our times and focus on what is truly important. We should all listen closely.
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