SongVault Artist Profile
 Big Joe Burke Vancouver
British Columbia, Canada Alternative Country / Americana
JUNE 2009:
YVR Records is proud to present its first new release: "Quiver", the powerful and passionate follow up album to former Albertan, Vancouver based, alt-country singer/songwriter Big Joe Burke's highly acclaimed debut release "Love Or Money" (July 2007/Indie). Listed as one of "BC's Best Bands" by The Province Newspaper's Tom Harrison for two years running (2007/2008), Big Joe Burke’s rowdy and rousing alt-country music has been stopping and stealing hearts since he first emerged in Vancouver’s Roots Music Scene in the Spring of 2006. “Love or Money” established Burke as a gifted singer-songwriter and one of the most promising local acts on the rise. “Quiver” – Burke’s new release - presents timeless and topical subject matter through an intensely expressive fusion of country, rock’n’roll and the blues - and defines "Big Joe Burke" as a powerful, dynamic and impressive Canadian singer-songwriter who has what it takes to become a legend in his own right. Recorded in YVR Studios between November 2008 and April 2009. Produced by Big Joe Burke. Engineered by Ken Burke and Chris Hockins. “Quiver” was released by YVR Records May 22nd, 2009. 9 Burke originals, 4 vintage covers – respectfully, creatively approached anew. “Quiver” not only showcases Burke’s talent and skill as a songwriter and vocalist, but as a producer, too. Tuesday May 19th, 2009 CD Reviews - The Province Newspaper - Stuart Derdeyn: BIG JOE BURKE Quiver (YVR Records) From the opener "Toe the Line" to the closing cover of "Tonight the Bottle Let Me Down," the group proves its songwriting craft repeatedly. It's all very strong, but the ballads, such as "Home Sweet Home" or eerie "Car Lights," really stand out. B -- S.D. June 2009 – UBC’s DiscOrder Magazine Big Joe Burke - Quiver (YVR Records) "Quiver contains 13 songs, nine of which are originals penned by Burke. Covers include material by Merle Haggard, Gordon Lightfoot and unexpectedly, the Beatles, which works surprisingly well. Burke's cover of Bob Dylan's "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright" is a welcome addition to the disc as it's a frequent staple of his live sets and a complete showstopper of a rendition. Why this man has not yet been scooped up by Nashville is one of life's sweet mysteries. Either there is no justice in this world or he hasn't yet been heard by someone with the power to make that happen. Let's hope for the latter. (ed. Maybe he just likes Vancouver.) - Melissa Smith |
