If you think of crossing
Tom Waits
with
the Band
, and have them play a punk/country/blues/bluegrass hybrid, you might come close to
the Circus of Flames'
sound. The
Circus
is led by
Doug Andrew
, who contributes lead vocal and guitar, as well as writing or co-writing 11 of the 12 songs. His songs seem to reflect the viewpoint of an average guy who has been to a good party and is glad to be in the company of his friends. They are out for a good time, and their playing, rather than being flawless, reflects their simple joy of making music together. Order a copy at
The Circus in Flames
, P.O. Box 74532, 2803 West 4th Ave., Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V6K 4P4. ~ Bob Gottlieb