54-40 - Goodbye Flatland

Vancouver’s 54-40 proves they’ve lost none of the feistiness or melodic strengths that characterized much of the band’s best work in the mid-80s and early ‘90s. From the cocky guitar of the opening rocker “Ride” and the Little Richard-invoking screamer “Animal in Pain” to such tuneful romantic delights as “Take Me Out” and “Secrets,” this album captures a veteran rock band at the peak of its powers. And lead singer Neil Osborne’s vocals have never sounded so good. Hello maturity.