Up To Here

Two years after sparking a buzz with their self-titled debut, the Tragically Hip dispelled any lingering questions of beginner's luck with the rock-solid Up to Here. The album laid pavement over the impressive path carved out by its predecessor, offering bold, blues-infused rock with image-rich, provocative lyrics from enigmatic frontman Gord Downie. Challenging as Downie's vocals and words can be, the band's straightforward approach to its craft ensures widespread accessibility. The first track, "Blow at High Dough," proved an instant Can-rock radio anthem, with "New Orleans Is Sinking" following suit. Yet another single, "38 Years Old," put up similar numbers, and by the time the '80s became the '90s the Hip's fate as the nation's pre-eminent rock combo was sealed. Up to Here captures the youthful energy of a legendary outfit still finding its feet, while charting the course for great things to come. --Chuck Molgat