City and Colour: Discovering Hidden Music Gems
City and Colour has been in my playlist for a long time now. Almost since the release of the first album. It’s a music creation of Dallas Green, a very talented musician, song writer and record producer. Actually the “City and Colour” title is just a reflection of his own first and last names.
From the moment I heard his music I knew it was something good, something special. At that time I was especially interested in folk and indie music, so this was right down my alley. But the City and Colour sound was also quite different from other bands and singers. First of all, Dallas Green has distinctive voice. Secondly, he writes really good lyrics. And last but not least, the music itself is simply beautiful. It has just the right pace and often gives place for amazing acoustic guitar moments.
City and Colour has 6 albums for you to enjoy. Every albums has at least a couple tracks that I can easily put on repeat. And that in itself speaks volumes about the quality of music made by this man. A truly rare talent, who luckily for us followed his passion and as a result we have all these amazing songs to listen.
Oh, and on a side note, Dallas also collaborated with Pink to release their duet album. It is called Rose Ave and was put out under the name of their duet You+Me. That collaboration is just superb. A match made in heaven and I will write a separate article about them.
Who is the City and Colour? Short Bio
City and Colour is the solo project of Canadian singer-songwriter Dallas Green, who is also known as the former vocalist and guitarist of the post-hardcore band Alexisonfire.
City and Colour was started in 2005 as a way for Green to showcase his softer and more acoustic side. He has released six studio albums, two live albums, and several EPs and singles under this name. His latest album, The Love Still Held Me Near, was released in 2023.
For the latest news about City and Colour, like tour dates and other official releases you can check the official website and socials.
Music Style of City and Colour
City and Colour’s music style incorporates folk, acoustic, and indie rock genres. Green’s distinctive voice and emotional lyrics are the main features of his songs. The songs often deal with themes such as love, loss, loneliness, self-reflection, hope and life itself.
Dallas Green also freely adds elements of blues, country, soul, and pop in some of his tracks. He plays various instruments, such as guitar, piano, harmonica, and banjo. Being a multi-instrumentalist has its perks for sure.
What makes City and Colour so special?
For me, the magic of City and Colour music lies in amazing melodies that go hand in hand with deep emotional lyrics. The melodies attract your attention immediately. And then you get glued by lyrics. It’s really hard to compare his music with anything else. It is indeed unique.
In terms of songs themselves, you’ll find plenty of slow, calm tracks. But he also has faster paced hits. All in all City and Colour offers one of the best folk/indie rock music you can find.
Best Song by City and Colour
I have a special playlist of the best songs by City and Colour. Feel free to enjoy it on YouTube or Spotify. It’s a TOP-10 compilation.
But if you’ve never heard City and Colour, I would recommend a song called “Sometimes (I Wish)” as you first listen. This is one of Dallas’s best songs.
If you already listened to this song, then the chances are you are now a City and Colour fan, just like me. But if you need more music, juts check my playlist. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
