Album Review: Kiefer Sutherland, Bloor Street

It's been six years since Kiefer Sutherland released his debut Down In A Hole. Over that time he's demonstrated he's not dabbling in music but putting in the hours and miles on the road touring. Now with his latest, the musician (yes, we know he acts too!) has returned to his stomping ground of Toronto, reflecting on simpler times before becoming internationally known.

The opening title track sets the album off on great footing with a vivid series of images that Blue Rodeo would be jealous of. It's also less honky-tonk and more up-tempo roots that is another plus on tunes, such as "Going Down", that gives him singer-songwriter credibility.

What makes much of the record work is it's not forced as is the case with the ballad-esque "County Jail Gate," "Set Me Free" and the Seger-ish "Lean Into Me." Producer Chris Lord-Alge mostly weaves his magic but "Goodbye" comes off a bit muddled.

There are plenty of keepers among the 11 tunes, particularly the infectious "Two Stepping In Time" and "Chasing The Rain," the latter describing the now-coveted, precious feeling of live performing, loading out and heading to the next town. In short Kiefer doesn't flatline on Bloor Street.

Bloor Street was released January 21, 2022 on Co-op Music/Pheromone Recordings/Cooking Vinyl.
Listen to it here.