Tonk/Shrouded Amps
Tonk
Songs to Glorify the Peasant and His Tractor // Independent
I remember Tonk’s debut show, almost exactly a year ago at Music Waste 2019 -- mostly because I wasn’t there. They played at a tiny venue that reached capacity really quickly, but word got around about the show and I spent the rest of the weekend aware that I had missed out on something new and fun and kinda special. So after many months of only being able to listen to the single “silt,” it’s a true treat to put on the entirety of Songs to Glorify the Peasant and His Tractor at the end of a rough day. It’s a completely satisfying country-rock record that definitely justifies the buzz from that first show.
Tonk embraces the cathartic and transformative appeal of country music as they reimagine their city-dwelling troubles through the lens of a “buckaroo,” using classic country staples like steel guitar and banjo. It’s a unique perspective in the local DIY scene: obviously Vancouver isn’t Nashville (I think some of the people living in Kerrisdale mansions have horses maybe?), and if there’s a country music scene in Vancouver then I am definitely not tapped into it. But Vancouver is a breeding ground for systemic inequality, and outlaw country is a fitting expression for working class dissatisfaction and heartache. Tonk formed “over a mutual appreciation of country music and a mutual lack of appreciation for their jobs,” and both these things come through in the album.
Through several ballads and some jaunty tracks that rock a little harder, Tonk explores the trudgery of sucky jobs, the crushing feeling of scraping by in a basement suite while condos replace the places you love (“Condo”), and they poke fun at their own ignorance about that classic country trope: horses (“Horse Knowledge”). It’s largely the kind of straightforward storytelling that’s characteristic of country, with plenty of sweet harmonizing and banjo-forward instrumentals. But there’s also a punk sensibility accompanying the twang -- you don’t necessarily need to love country to love this country album.
- Natalie Corbo
Shrouded Amps
Make Me Strange // Independent
I’m a strange cat. I always have been. But I’m cool with it and the new Shrouded Amps album Make Me Strange makes me embrace my inner weirdo even more!
Shrouded Amps has been prominent in the indie scene in Vancouver for about 5 years. Playing music, recording and helping run a very crucial volunteer venue called Toast Collective. This trio consists of
Tracey Vath, Matthew Budden, and Eirinn M.
Make Me Strange is an album in memory and in honour of the late Toronto painter John Brown. Their cover art is that of this late painter. What a beautiful way to honour someone....I was really quite moved by it actually.
The album starts off with song also titled ‘Make me Strange’ and what a great opening track. Heavenly vocals with a Breeders-like flavour. I really dig that!! Also I must mention the use of what’s called prepared guitar. What’s that you ask? It’s experimenting with guitar by taking items such as plastic, glass, or metal, and running it through the strings to create some unique and innovative sounds. This technique also featured in Oragami Cat.
‘Pig in a Poke’ features some vocals sweet as sunshine alongside grungy guitars. I really appreciate the drums in this track. Intricate rhythms and some splash, great drum rolls. ‘Mayday’ flows beautifully into ‘Shakespeare Book Burning’ by the way. ‘Flat Screen Blue Sheet Lightning Room’ has a breezy feel to it. I really love Tracy’s vocals and the catchy melody. I was walking around humming this one later in the day. A sweet guitar solo and drums that build gradually like ocean waves.
This album really resonated with me. Beautifully composed and a little experimental. Not afraid to push the boundaries of sound. It’s a little light and a little dark and I love it!! Take a listen. Your ears will be happy you did!
Be excellent to each other!
Noreen Hurst
