Magazine

It’s a rare occasion that I decide to review a recent album, but this year’s Metal March at CJLO has proven to be such a time. As such, I have decided to take a look at an EP released earlier this year by Montreal locals Ritual Master, entitled Obscurus. I’m a real sucker for metal albums that use Old English font on their covers, so this one piqued my interest from the get-go.

“F*** the Real McKenzies!”

Not many groups can simultaneously be as kickass and self-deprecating—all while maintaining such a sense of humour that feels lacking in today’s age of far-too-serious punk—as the Real McKenzies.

One of Canada’s most iconic punk bands returns with their next offering to their already impressive catalog. The Real McKenzies kicked off 2017 with the release of Two Devils Will Talk, an album that continues their trend of Atlantic-infused Celtic punk. From the moment the bagpipes start playing, Two Devils works to reaffirms the ongoing legend status of the group.

Nearly a decade has passed since Manchester’s Dutch Uncles made their entrance on the scene with their self-titled debut album. However, the group’s newly released fifth album, Big Balloon, has critics calling it their best album to date. Shortly before the album’s release, Alex from Ashes to Ashes interviewed Robin Richards, bassist and main songwriter for Dutch Uncles, about the new record, “Dad rock,” and what advice he would have given to his 16-year-old self.

Image credit: Sebastian Matthes

It’s been five years since Peter Peter’s breakthrough album, Une version améliorée de la tristesse, was released, with the native Quebecer decamping to France in the interim. However, the artist has finally released his third album, Noir Éden, which has received glowing reviews since its release—thanks to its deft melange of pop structures and experimental sonics. Peter Peter kindly took the time to discuss the new album, songwriting, and more.

Image credit: Paul Rousteau