Over the last two decades, Dave McCann has firmly entrenched himself as a stalwart songwriting force in the Alberta roots music community. His latest album, Soothsayer’s Blues, reaches beyond Alberta’s prairie skies and into the heart of the Delta.
Soothsayer’s Blues was recorded at the legendary Zebra Ranch in Coldwater, Mississippi. Home of late, great session player and producer Jim Dickinson (Bob Dylan, Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Ry Cooder, The Replacements, and Big Star), the Zebra Ranch’s unique character deeply informed and inspired the songs.
“There is this spiritual genius that kinda rises above it all; an integrity that just can’t be simulated,” says McCann. “I personally think it’s foundational to North American roots music. I could feel that energy there.”
McCann enlisted the help of veteran producer Jimbo Mathus for the album. Although perhaps best known for fronting the swing revival group The Squirrel Nut Zippers, Mathus’ mammoth resume includes artists like Elvis Costello, Bette Smith, and Valerie June, along with a key touring role with Buddy Guy during his Sweet Tea run.
“Jimbo held up his lantern and showed me the path,” recalls McCann. “If you are open to the process, it hits you hard, and once it’s out of the box, I’m not sure you can put it back in and forget about it. It kinda haunts you.”
The Mississippi magic ultimately resonated with listeners, as Soothsayer’s Blues reached the top of the CKUA charts this past September. Although the accolades were welcome, the recognition was secondary for McCann, who prefers to keep external validation at arm’s length. “For me, the reward is in the work itself,” he says. “The songs I feel called to write give me a sense of purpose that goes beyond status or short-term wins.”
Dave McCann has since taken the show on the road, touring on the strength of the album throughout Alberta this fall. Although his time in Mississippi had a profound influence on his latest work, he still loves being part of the Alberta roots and folk community.
“Artists genuinely want to support each other and see their friends and peers succeed,” McCann says. “With community infrastructure like CKUA Radio, it really brings an education about regional artists to Alberta. It’s a good connector between venue, artist, and patron.”
Albertans can catch Dave McCann on-tour through October and November. His next show will be in Crowsnest Pass on Saturday, October 25. Check his website for more upcoming performances!
