Ben Caplan & The Casual Smokers - In the Time of the Great Remembering (2011)

“In the Time of the Great Remembering“ is a powerful and evocative debut from Canadian troubadour Ben Caplan. Released in October 2011, this album introduces Caplan’s distinct blend of folk, roots, and world music, delivering a sound that’s both raw and richly layered. Caplan’s deep, gravelly voice is at the heart of the record, weaving tales of love, loss, and longing with a fervor that’s impossible to ignore. The album is a testament to his ability to channel both wild energy and intimate vulnerability, creating a soundscape that’s as complex as it is compelling. Musically, “In the Time of the Great Remembering“ is a diverse journey. From the haunting melodies of “Drift Apart“ to the raucous energy of “Bang to Break the Drum,“ Caplan and his band, The Casual Smokers, demonstrate a mastery of dynamics and emotion. The arrangements are lush yet never overbearing, allowing each instrument to shine while still supporting Caplan’s commanding vocal presence. The use