The Tragically Hip: World Container (2006), A Must-have for Fans

Kingston Ontario's rock legends, The Tragically Hip's latest installment, World Container, adds the 11th chapter to their series of full-length albums that sit amongst the upper echelon of great Canadian rock n' roll records.

Not straying far away from the customary style associated with the Hip, World Container delivers a range of songs that Hip fans expect, and have essentially grown to love. The album will not necessarily attract new fans to the Hip's fan base, but it will most definitely satisfy the tastes of Hip die-hard's.

World Container is a fast paced album that only runs a total of 42 minutes, with eleven tracks, only two of which running longer than four minutes.

As with the previous Hip album's, I found that I needed to listen to World Container several times before totally appreciating it. Despite seeming like the album is over before it starts, World Container has a great flow and mix of up-beat and melodic tracks, leaving me very impressed as a listener.

The opening track 'Yer not the Ocean' instantly sets the tone for the entire album, combining passionate lyrics by Gord Downie, foot-tapping beats by drummer Johnny Fay, and catchy guitar riffs by lead guitarist Rob Baker, bass guitarist Gord Sinclair, and rhythmic guitarist Paul Langlois.

Songs that stand out in my mind, and tracks that will undoubtedly make regular appearances in live Hip performances for years to come are; 'The Lonely End Of The Rink', 'Family Band' and 'Fly.'

Already featured in a video montage of hockey highlights during a recent CBC telecast of Hockey Night in Canada, the Hip's 'The Lonely End Of The Rink' showcases once again the bands love for Canada's national winter sport.

Following in the tradition of past hockey-related-tunes '50 Mission Cap' and 'Fireworks', World Container's second track features catchy guitar riffs and the familiar Hip sound.

When sitting down to listen to the album, 'Family Band' and 'Fly' are tracks that I found myself turning to first, and enjoying the most. Downie's vocals highlight each song and the passion, unity, and development of the band are expertly displayed in both tracks.

Hands down, the most enchanting song on the album is the seventh track 'Pretend.' In the tradition of former Hip classics 'Wheat Kings' and 'It's a Good Life If You Don't Weaken,' this tune will undoubtedly receive a swarm of illumination from lighters during any live performances of the song.

World Container's first single 'In View' is not the best song on the album, but it is still a very solid and catchy track. The keyboard of Jamie Edwards adds a unique and innovative variation to the otherwise standard Hip sound.

World Container is an album that Hip fans will enjoy immensely and includes tracks that I will look forward to hearing at future Hip performances.