THE STRUMBELLAS play a CD release at the Rivoli on Friday (February 17). See listing. Rating: NNN
Toronto-via-Lindsay folk rockers the Strumbellas’ debut album showcases their punky gang vocals and strong instrumental parts. Building on their 2009 EP – on which a couple of these songs first appeared – it’s the work of singer/guitarist Simon Ward backed by six other musicians, including James Oliver on banjo, ukulele and piano, David Ritter on organ and Isabel Ritchie on strings.
Produced by Cone McCaslin (Sum 41), the lush album is heavy on the thumpy, anthemic material that contributes to the band’s live appeal. Despite lyrics about yearning, lying and death, the songs are surprisingly uplifting though verging on formulaic. Better are the more sophisticated The Bird That Follows Me, Windsurfers and haunting Diane. More of that, please.
Top track: Diane
