Gordon Lightfoot Book, Music and More!

Another husband-and-wife pairing, Ghost Stories is Kreviazuk’s fourth CD and her first produced entirely by hubby and Our Lady Peace frontman Raine Maida. Recorded in the couple’s Malibu home studio, the album provides an intimate showcase for Kreviazuk’s emotional brand of piano pop. Although the addition of lush strings on the title track and “Waiting for the Sun” seems like an unnecessary burden, songs like the rhythmic “Spoke in Tongues” and the gospel-like “So Cold” are stark reminders of her confessional talent. Aug. 22   

Led by husband and wife Dave Azzolini and Jessica Grassia, Toronto’s Golden Dogs has been winning an enviable buzz as a frenetic live act in clubs and festivals. The band’s second album, with a myriad of pop influences, should solidify that reputation. “Runouttaluck” has a driving, new-wave-style urgency, while “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five” is a rollicking rendition of the Paul McCartney & Wings classic. And “Construction Worker” would not sound out of place on a New Pornographers album. Aug. 15

Recorded at Lee’s Palace in Toronto, this double CD proves Neko Case right when she calls The Sadies “the best live band in North America.” The songs, a mix of covers and originals from the psychobilly band’s albums, are mostly played at breakneck speed, with Dallas and Travis Good pushing each other to frenzied heights. Guests include family bluegrass greats The Good Brothers, Blue Rodeo, Band organist Garth Hudson and Case herself, who graces seven tracks with her breathtaking vocals. A thrilling two-hour ride. Aug. 8