The Dust Collectors are a folk rock band based in Calgary, Canada. They’ve just come to my attention thanks to their debut full-length album Outside In.

By Graeme Smith

The four members of the Dust Collectors were all playing in different bands up until about 2018 when they started recording together and instantly gelled. They’ve released two EPs in the build up to this full length and have become known in their local scene for toe-tapping rhythms and four-part harmonies.

We get a taste of this straight away with album opener Shoulder Season. Leaning more heavily into the rock side of their sound, the tempo is high and the lyrical mood low. Murder, I Wrote gives us something a little gentler, with lonesome, atmospheric country instrumentals and mournful vocals. Take A Dive is a scrappy, folksy underdog anthem while Keeping Time seethes with a jazzy energy and fizzy storytelling.

Dandelion is delicate Americana full of longing and symbolism. Black Fly ventures into classic country rock akin to the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young sound. Here’s Hoping gives us contrasting laidback and lively blues moments. Waiting Game is a surprisingly light and airy number that somewhat disguises its biting lyrics while Bullshit & Lies sets aside subtlety for something honest and visceral. It’s a highlight.

Flush & Plumb gives us some honky-tonk while Old No. 9 Train chunters along nicely with confessional lyrics. Bad Talk is a swinging, singalong highlight. Better Times provides an introspective, acoustic folk ballad before Truth Be Told closes the album with swelling, energetic blues rock infused with melancholic wisdom.

With this collection, The Dust Collectors have been able to demonstrate the full gamut of their sound without sacrificing cohesiveness. Fans of classic country rock and more modern styles will love it in equal measure. Outside In is out now via Neon Moon Records. You can give it a listen below.