Reviews and write-ups

“Canadian family band Ludgate is an amalgam of the modern and the traditional, the past and the present. What we love most about Ludgate here at Music Notes Global is that they are a family band. Bringing together the distinct musical experiences of parents and their children, Ludgate finds the beauty that lies at the intersection of two generations while telling stories that speak directly to the human condition. Their 2018 album, What The Camera Couldn’t See, is an 11-track collection that uses John and Sheila’s roots and folk music as a serene base for the vibrant electronic and rock influences of their three sons Luke, Anthony, and Shane. Over those tracks the album follows the passage of time and the journey home, whether that journey is to a physical or spiritual place. In these confusing, anxious times, it is a reminder that through joy, sadness, and sorrow, everyone shares similar experiences, and that we are not alone in what we go through day to day.”

“What do you get when you combine two parts roots with three parts alternative? A transcendent sound that fills the heart with an indescribable warmth, a sound that only Ludgate could create. That sound is the hallmark of What the Camera Couldn’t See. John and Sheila Ludgate and their sons Luke, Anthony and Shane come together as a five-piece. Engineered and produced by Anthony, many of the tracks blend guitars, soft percussion and lulling vocals with piano, mandolin or violin. The album is a dialogue between the two music styles. “Sad & Beautiful” starts with a piano solo by Kelly DelFiacco, then an electric guitar solo that is as unsettling as it is arresting. “I Walk On” needs to be heard to be understood, and felt — the resonance of the guitars needs to vibrate in your chest. Each track offers something different, some little tidbit that will reward even the most discerning listener.”

“John and Sheila are past winners of the Folk Music Ontario Songs from the Heart Award. Luke, Anthony and Shane Ludgate have been seen on Aux TV and MuchLoud with their band Beautiful Nothing, but when they’re all together, John and Sheila’s folk leanings dominate the sound. The strongest evidence of the younger Ludgates’ indie-rock leanings is found in the tasteful electric guitar solos, which reminded the moose a little of later Pink Floyd. The slower songs are really the stand-outs here.”

“John and Sheila Ludgate and family have been putting out quality music for quite a while now. Their folk tunes have been consistently strong through the years, but the addition of the younger family members have added some punch and electric to some songs.”

“The Ludgates' songs are insightful, and some are quite profound … with a variety of approaches to their expressive and reflective music, the Ludgates are troubadours with a keen ability to blend introspective thoughts with melodies and instrumentation that complement their messages. Rating — 5 out of 5 stars.”

“The feel is upbeat and positive, even in the album's more wistful and reflective moments, and it's hard not to warm to the Ludgates' easygoing, breezy and companionable brand of folk-rock. There's an honest power to John and Sheila's music-making which is both welcoming and appealing.”

“There’s a time-slip feeling to this music – the years fall away as it slides faultlessly from the emotive touch of late sixties folk rock to the sharpness of examining the world from today’s perspective. These songs could sit as mile markers along routes that many of us travel. John’s soulful lyrics live through his warm vocals. The depth of personal feeling is evident through the tender recollections.”

“There are very few times that I hear a new album and be immediately able to “see” those songs playing out in my mind’s eye. Northern Soul happens to do that very thing. This is a great album from top to bottom and one which I will enjoy listening to for years to come.”

“John and Sheila have been at this for a while, and it shows … very thoughtful lyrics put to a nice mix of acoustic folk and electric folk-rock, all backed by some very creative instrumental work. It’s no surprise “Northern Soul” has already garnered some very favorable attention in Canada and the USA.”

“Northern Soul, the new CD by Burlington's John and Sheila Ludgate, will take its lucky listeners on a magical journey. Musical travels take you back and forth to the 60s and the era of peace and love. Stops in between celebrate Canada, reveal heartbreaks, and even give you a chuckle.”

“Strong material based on roots/folk traditions with some clear Americana … songs are warm and pleasant, lyrical approaches are based on life’s experiences … interesting arrangements. “Running Through The Innocent Years” is recommended, equally for the older and newer folk/roots followers. Rating — 8.5/10.”

“In their opening cut, “Payback Road,” Ontario-based folk duo John & Sheila Ludgate tell us that “everybody's got to do their time, it separates the survivors from the cheap talk kind, and the scars they show through.” John plays guitar and harmonica; Sheila is a bass guitarist. If anyone’s done their time, it’s this couple, who have released albums since 1992 while raising four boys. Running Through the Innocent Years includes sons Anthony (guitar), Luke (guitar), and Shane (percussion, strings, horns, piano). The title cut deals with time’s passage and the curve balls that get thrown, but it’s love that will see you through. John’s fingerpicked acoustic guitar and warm conversational baritone are front and centre, with Sheila’s harmony discreet beside him. Produced and recorded by Anthony, the arrangements are mostly wistful, nostalgic balladry, with the occasional profound chestnut. “Colours” could have been worked up in the ’60s by Gordon Lightfoot or Simon and Garfunkel. “Masquerade,” with electric guitar and drums, shows a little of Johnny Cash. The Ludgates’ earthy music is worth a listen, and their advice sticks: “Get it all in, before time takes it all away.””