THE LAST RIDER

Ron Sexsmith Compass Records

Ron Sexsmith maintains his melodic consistency on The Last Rider, 15 pop songs absorbed by the threat of loneliness and ways to avoid it.

The St. Catharines, Ont., native recorded his 13th solo album with his touring band, adding to its ease and intimacy. Sexsmith has said he thought this could be his final recording for some time, but the pleasure of the experience might make him reconsider.

Sexsmith is at his most romantic on Evergreen, Our Way and Worried Song, his significant other appearing in different guises as the source of hope, security or inspiration.

Radio is low-voltage power pop about the days when young lives revolved around the AM/FM dial. Sexsmith sounds a little like Rufus Wainwright on the lighthearted West Gwillimbury, also a trip down memory lane.

There are no surprises here but don’t be distracted by the apparent familiarity of some of the tunes. Sexsmith’s range may not be wide but his aim is true.