Joel Plaskett - Down at the Khyber (2001)

Why Listen?

Recorded in the historic Khyber building in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the album's title is more than just a catchy phrase - it's a nod to the very essence of its creation.

The unique acoustics of the building, from its hallways to its stairwells, became an integral part of the album's sound. Plaskett and his team ingeniously used these spaces to create natural reverbs and echoes, giving the record an organic, lived-in feel that's hard to replicate in a conventional studio.

The album's production is a testament to the DIY spirit of indie rock. Using a mix of borrowed gear, including a decommissioned CBC plate reverb, Plaskett and his team crafted a sound that's both raw and polished. The result is an album that feels intimate yet expansive, with each track revealing new layers upon repeated listens.

Down at the Khyber refuses to be pigeonholed into a single genre. It's a delightful mishmash of Canadiana, Americana, and straight-up rock 'n' roll, with a dash of Jamaican soul thrown in for good measure. This eclectic mix is exemplified in tracks like "Cry Together", a cover that showcases Plaskett's ability to blend diverse influences into a cohesive sound.

Plaskett's songwriting shines throughout the album, with lyrics that are both introspective and universally relatable. Coupled with the Emergency's (the backing band) tight musicianship, each track feels like a perfectly crafted indie rock gem. From the energetic opener "Down at the Khyber" to the wistful closer "Light of the Moon", the album takes listeners on a journey through the ups and downs of early adulthood.

Twenty years after its release, Down at the Khyber continues to resonate with listeners. Its inclusion in lists of the greatest Canadian albums of all time speaks to its enduring appeal. The album's influence can be heard in countless indie rock records that followed, cementing its status as a touchstone of Canadian music.

Down at the Khyber stands out as a beacon of authenticity. It's a reminder of the magic that can happen when talented musicians armed with nothing but their instruments and a whole lot of creativity come together in a historic building with great acoustics.

For fans of indie rock, Down at the Khyber is an essential addition to your music library.

Curator's Note:

Was going through my old records looking for indie rock to share with Gehlee and came across this gem. There's a bunch of Canadian references but I don't think that matters. For some reason "Cry Together" really stood out as a possible UNIS cover. Turns out it's originally a Jamaican song by Alton & Hortense Ellis, a brother/sister duo. Maybe an opportunity?