This onetime guitarist-songwriter-vocalist for the East Coast-based Rankin Family -- or The Rankins, as they were later known -- releases his solo debut on Tuesday.

And it's a harder-edged, more roots-rock collection than anything his sweet-sounding family released over their decade-long career.

Check out songs like Drunk & Crucified, Wasted, and Stoned Blue.

Still, there are a few poignant moments amongst the 12 songs. Midnight Angel may or may not be about his late brother and bandmate John Morris -- who died last year in a car accident -- with backup vocals provided by his sister Cookie. She also appears on four other tracks.

Other heart-tuggers are the stripped-down and acoustic This Is The Heart -- actually the album standout -- and Tripper.

East Coast artist Gordie Sampson co-wrote the first single, Followed Her Round, featuring Blue Rodeo's Greg Keelor on backing vocals.

Working with producer Tim Thorney (Alanis Morissette), Rankin succeeds in finding his own distinctive voice.

His rough and tumble vocals add to the atmosphere.

Rankin even writes a few fine love songs, such as Lighthouse Heart and You & Me. All in all, an impressive solo debut.

He will tour on his own in September with a Toronto date expected.

(More on: The Rankin Family)

Track Listing 1. Followed Her Around

2. Midnight Angel

3. Drunk & Crucified

4. Lighthouse Heart

5. Wasted

6. We'll Carry On (Prelude)

7. This Is The Hour

8. Tripper

9. We'll Carry On

10. You & Me

11. Stoned Blue

12. Captain Harmony