Continuing my look at 2004, first by counting down my own top ten albums of that year.
#8 – Ron Sexsmith – Retriever
I’ve given Canadian singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith a bit of a hard time over his consistency and productivity.
He’s been putting out a solid album every year or two for 30 years, an enviable track record for any artist. But there’s a sameness to his style that makes all of those albums run together after awhile.
But back in 2004 he was only halfway through that string of releases, and each new album felt special. Coming on the heels of the excellent Blue Boy (2001) and Cobblestone Runway (2002), Retriever was another excellent collection of smart pop.
Sexsmith examines the human condition in songs about faith, forgiveness, love found, and love lost. This is one of his most contemplative and sensitive collections, buoyed by intricate but unfussy production.
Though Sexsmith has put out several very fine albums since, Retriever wrapped up a stretch that marks the best period of his career.
I just feel like calling it a day
But you send me back to the start
You drive a hard bargain
Each time I’m heading for nowhere
Doomed and determined to go there
It seems I never get far
‘Cos you drive a hard bargain
You drive a hard bargain
[Chorus X2]
How’s a guy supposed to fail
With someone like you around?
I’ve tried and tried to no avail
You just can’t seem to let me down
You drive a hard bargain
You drive a hard bargain
So I’ll keep on playing that old song
‘Cos for all I know it’s where I belong
When the world is breaking my heart
You drive a hard bargain
You send me back to the start
You drive a hard bargain
You drive a hard bargain
I’m a bit run down, but I’m okay
Meet Me In Montauk 
And, of course, he is part of the no-hit wonder club.🤪
I am in full agreement that Ron Sexsmith is a remarkable songwriter, and it is very interesting that he has not had a hit single in all these years. That said, he is quite celebrated in his native Canada, having been Juno nominated many times for album categories and an incredible 6 times for Songwriter of the Year and he won the trophy in 2005 for “Hard Bargain” amongst two other songs. All this and never a top ten in his own country. He has often stated that he doesn’t get it, how he can receive all these accolades, but still have next to nothing to show for it. That said, the man works hard for his craft – constantly on the road to make ends meet. I met him several years ago after a show and he was one of the most gracious people I’ve ever met.