Album Profile
Fred Eaglesmith
Cha Cha Cha
PRODUCTION NOTES
The album Cha Cha Cha, released in 2010 on Lonesome Day Records(LDR 032), represents a bold sonic evolution for Fred Eaglesmith—the prolific Canadian singer-songwriter celebrated for his raw alt-country and folk roots. This 10-track collection, approximately 35 minutes long, infuses his signature storytelling with atmospheric guitars, bossa nova rhythms, mid-’60s rock influences, late-’60s/early-‘70s rock and roll flair, and swampy textures—creating a retro-modern sound that’s both cinematic and earthy, often described as a ’50s Hollywood record colliding with swampy grooves.
Produced by Fred Eaglesmith, the album was crafted with an expansive, studio-focused approach that expands his palette beyond traditional acoustic setups, incorporating extra guitars, percussion, effects, and layered arrangements for a fuller, more atmospheric production while retaining his intimate, nasal tenor and narrative depth. The result is a cohesive set that feels adventurous yet authentic, highlighting Eaglesmith’s constant push to evolve his sound in the recording studio.
The material explores love, longing, regret, and human quirks through vivid character sketches and melodic hooks. Standouts include the breezy opener “Careless” (featured on The Late Show with David Letterman), the sly “Tricks”, the dreamy “Sliver of the Moon”, the heartfelt “I Would”, the introspective “Shallow”, the wistful “Gone Too Long”, the narrative “Rebecca Street”, the gritty “Dynamite and Whiskey”, the driving “Car”, and the shadowy “Silhouettes”—blending upbeat grooves, reflective ballads, and subtle experimentation for engaging flow.
Eaglesmith leads on vocals, guitar, and songwriting, recording with his road band and supplemented by additional musicians for textured guitars, percussion, and effects—delivering a tight, immersive ensemble that brings the eclectic influences to life with warmth and precision.
Critically praised for its inventive production and songcraft, Cha Cha Chaearned acclaim as a departure that honors Eaglesmith’s roots while venturing into fresh territory. As a Lonesome Day Records release, it endures as a highlight in his vast catalog, appealing to fans of rootsy Americana with a twist of retro flair and emotional honesty.
TRACK LISTINGS
1. Careless
2. Tricks
3. Sliver of the Moon
4. I Would
5. Shallow
6. Gone Too Long
7. Rebecca Street
8. Dynamite and Whiskey
9. Careless (alternative)
10. Silhouettes
STREAM/PURCHASE
SOUND CLIPS
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