John K.Samson, über-Canadian and leader of The Weakerthans will be releasing his solo debut, Provincial, on January 24, 2012. The record contains newly recorded versions of songs from Samson's previous two acclaimed EPs, City Route 85 [7 inch] and Provincial Road 222 alongside a number of new tracks.

The album focuses on exploring four routes inthe prairie landscape of Manitoba, the Canadian province where Samson lives. The label said this:

"Heart of the Continent," describes the sense of loss and despair that haunts the former site of a Winnipeg landmark, set against a backdrop of lilting country folk. The melodic rocker "When I Write My Master's Thesis," details a young academic's struggle to hold his life together as he tries to complete his research of a forgotten institution in tiny Ninette, Manitoba, while "www.ipetitions.com/petition/rivertonrifle/" is a song in the form of an online petition to honor the valiant hockey player Reggie "The Riverton Rifle" Leach.

John will also be supporting the album with a headlining tour kicking off in March in Boston. Only the first block of dates have been announced, and more US and Canadian shows are promised.

Of course, don't forget that The Weakerthans will be performing four full-album shows in New York and San Francisco next month.