Returning to Canada from Europe, all four members of Yukon Blonde have hit the nail on the head with their signature style of sensible pop inspired organic rock in Tiger Talk. The Stairway 7” just came out in January and it’s showing the band can hit the road and still keep fans enthusiastic for more music. Some might call it overload since they hit the scene with their catchy rhythm and lyrics parading about like most new bands, but a combination of musical variety and the group’s well thought out writing and workmanship in and out of the studio will endure for years to come.
After the first listen to this new album, I gazed about, thinking how Jeffrey Innes’s, Brandon Scott’s, Graham Jones’s and John Jeffrey’s sound can categorized as “Canadian.” Not sure why, but Arcade Fire’s performance on the Much Music Video Awards from years ago crossed my mind. With 10 tracks to dive into, the listener is presented with a glorious display of familiar harmonies and gently crafted twists of vocal abilities. The upbeat “Breathing Tigers” got me excited —got me off my seat to stagger back and forth. Breathing a sly charismatic energy on “Guns” you get a chance to see an introspective into the band’s views on troubled teenage minds. But, out of all the songs here, “Radio” pumps up the heart with a running start and a thunderous kick drum. With the energy it stirs up you will be transported onto a melodic lyrical escapade — not to mention that the guitar ventures into an 80s styled theme of nu beat structure.
Along with the fact that this new album will be available digitally, one great aspect of this release is that for all the audiophiles it will be on 12” vinyl, too. Sold! Yukon Blonde rolls into town at the WECC, March 24. Be sure to check them out.
Four stars out of five
