Saskatchewan is one of those few place names that, if I am a good judge of popular character, is a real joy to say out loud. This feeling only intensified when it became apparent that Little Miss Higgins was a resident in the province. Her new album, “Across The Plains”, is the musical equivalent of a burlesque show. Classy, elegant, and fun.
There’s a sleepy warmth to begin with in “Beautiful Sun” in which we get an immediate impression of Ms Higgins’s vocal appeal. Eventually blossoming into a danceable “big band” number, Higgins visits both the French and English language to heighten the charm offensive. The notion that “Bargain! Shop Panties” could soon become your new favourite song is not an unreasonable one. With an almost comic rockabilly swing reminiscent of Rosie Flores, Ms Higgins sings favourably about her newfound out-of-town bargain store. Listen to this without grinning and there’s something wrong with you.
On a more serious note, “Snowin’ Today: A Lament For Louis Riel” pays tribute to the founding father of Manitoba and staunch defender of the rights of the Métis people. Despite giving a rather incomplete retelling of his life and death, it proves a pleasant listen and a good introduction to Canadian history. There’s a little a cappella goodness to absorb on “Gather My Fruit” while “Glad Your Whiskey Fits Inside My Purse” is a rosy-cheeked throwback to old-time Appalachia. This is exciting listening.
Recorded at Bedside Studios in Winnipeg, this album is also commendable for its tidy production. Ms Higgins will be the first to acknowledge the telling contributions from all the musicians and engineers who helped make this album such a delightful listen. However, the bigger picture tells that Little Miss Higgins is going to become a big league player in Canadian music before too long. Strongly recommended.