Few artists manage to secure a 42-piece string section for their debut recording, but Canadian Matt Dusk is no stranger to big bands. Dusk released four independent records while simultaneously performing with his own eight-piece outfit, playing nearly 20 shows a month in the clubs of Toronto. Seemingly predestined for a career in classical and opera, Dusk changed his tune at the age of 18 after hearing Tony Bennett and Sarah Vaughan. He eventually signed to Decca, releasing the album Two Shots, a collection of standards and original compositions, in June 2004. The Christmas-themed Peace on Earth saw release a year later, with Dusk's sophomore studio effort, Back in Town, following in 2006. ~ James Christopher Monger