by Scott Roos
live photos by Melanie Macpherson
Our Grade: B
Evan Baxter’s My Waste of Time EP beautifully blends the soulful storytelling of country with the energy of ‘90s rock, showcasing his diverse musical influences and authenticity. Hailing from the small town of Demaine, Saskatchewan, Baxter’s music evokes a deep sense of nostalgia, yet it still feels fresh and grounded in the present.
The EP opens with "Lie to Me", a rollicking, grunge-soaked track that channels both pop and country rock elements. The song tells the story of a scorned lover with a familiar theme, but Baxter’s soaring high register is a highlight here. He taps into an engaging, emotional power when he reaches those higher notes, giving the track a dynamic feel. His vocals, full of passion and energy, add an extra layer to the song’s appeal. While the track feels like it could use just a little more spark in the verses, especially in his lower register, Baxter still delivers a memorable performance overall.
"Those Days" follows with an acoustic ballad that’s steeped in nostalgia for simpler times. Its rural charm and relatable theme resonate deeply with listeners from small communities. Baxter’s voice, warm and sincere, delivers the sentiment well, and his understated delivery feels perfectly suited for the track. There's a tenderness in his performance here that really captures the essence of the song. It’s a gentle reflection on the past that hits just the right emotional note.
The next track, "Two Trips 'Round the Sun", offers another acoustic number, this time with a more cautionary tone about the dangers of drinking and driving. While the songwriting is solid, it’s Baxter’s understated approach to the subject matter that keeps the song grounded. The subtle yet effective instrumentation creates an intimate atmosphere, and Baxter’s delivery continues to be engaging, even as the song addresses a heavier topic.
"Storms of My Mind" takes a different turn, introducing a funky, soulful groove that brings a slight hip-hop vibe into the mix. The track is playful, with a cool Hammond organ riff and some interesting chord changes that build up nicely to the chorus. Baxter’s voice brings a bit of grit to this one, and while it’s clear there’s room for him to really lean into the song’s soulful qualities, it’s still a standout for its energy and musicality. The line “Feels like this whole world’s gone crazy and there’s just nothing we can do” captures the spirit of the times in a refreshingly honest way.
"Fly, Fly Away: has a bit of a grungy, alt-rock feel to it, drawing on the energy of ‘90s hits. Baxter channels a rough-edged vocal style here that complements the heavy guitar riffs and dark undertones. There’s a certain nostalgia embedded in the track, reminiscent of Seattle’s grunge era, and Baxter delivers a satisfying performance, especially as he reaches for his higher register toward the end of the song.
The EP closes with a radio edit of "Two Trips 'Round the Sun", which is essentially the same arrangement but with a minor lyrical adjustment. While the change is subtle, it doesn’t alter the essence of the song in any significant way.
Evan Baxter’s debut EP shows off a talented, evolving artist with a knack for blending genres. His upper register, in particular, is where he truly shines, bringing an engaging energy to many of the tracks. The arrangements are strong, and the musicianship is top-notch, with the mix of acoustic and heavier rock elements keeping the listener engaged. While his vocal delivery on the acoustic tracks is sincere, there are moments where his lower register could use a little more "oomph" to match the emotion of the lyrics and bring a deeper impact to the songs. He needs to almost channel Dallas Smith type vibes vocally. This would be a good fit for him.
Overall, My Waste of Time is a promising collection of songs, filled with emotional depth and solid musical ideas. Baxter’s roots in rural Saskatchewan and his love for ‘90s rock come together in a way that feels both nostalgic and new. As he continues to grow as an artist, there’s no doubt that his sound will evolve and further captivate his listeners.
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