Nightshade

His fourth solo release confirms this Canadian singer/guitarist’s stature as a compelling artist in his own right. Dawson’s formidable knowledge of American roots-music tradition is matched by an inspired touch on an array of string instruments (including the distinctive Weissborn lap steel guitar). He combines fluent acoustic fingerpicking with searing electric work on tunes like “Fairweather Friends,” “Darker Still” and the title number. “This Side of the Road” and “The Time It Takes” move with an old-fashioned bluesy slink, while “Have That Chance” is soulful Memphis-style balladry in the Dan Penn tradition. Steamy bayou grooves make “Torn and Frayed” and “Slow Turn” sound like prime Levon Helm cover material. Dawson’s band mates shine as well, with Chris Gestrin’s Wurlitzer piano and Philicorda organ licks adding a special retro tang. Nightshade’s lyrics often capture a worried state of mind, but the overall mood of the music here can’t help but make blues and folk fans grin with delight.