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Great Big Sea is a Canadian folk-rock band, hailing from Newfoundland and Labrador. They officially began in 1993, and haven't looked back since. Fortune's Favour is their 9th album - with heavy expectations after having already produced several multi-platinum records including 1995's Up, 1999's Turn, and 2002's Sea of Cares.  Although I had never heard much of the previous albums, Fortune's Favour was far from a disappointment. As compared to most "rock" albums, this one finds the near perfect balance of intense instrumental power and beautiful melodic vocals.

Walk on the Moon is a rough and catchy tune that is draped in emotion and hope. Following Walk on the Moon is a smooth track simply entitled England.  England is much like a lullaby with its light instrumentation and gentle vocals. Here and Now is an inspirational song with a great beat, and offers lyrical advice that, "The hardest part of life/Is to live while you're alive my friend."  Banks of Newfoundland showcases the group's folk-style background and really makes me feel like I'm in an old pub with a pint of ale. And, if for no other reason, you should get this album just for that track!

Fortune's Favor winds up in a happy place, with a great track called Heart of Stone. Without a doubt, there is something on this album for everyone, and I'm looking for at least two or three great singles from this effort. Even after 15 years, these guys still have what it takes to make a universally attractive album!