Songs of the Week: June 25 - 30, 2024
“Might As Well Know” by WAASH
This one snuck up on me. I knew WAASH — the latest project from Vancouver’s Andy Bishop — was releasing an album soon, but I did not realise the self-titled full length was dropping last Friday!
Along with the new album comes the new single, “Might As Well Know”, an incredibly catchy synth-pop tune which was co-written with Bishop's Twin River bandmate Courtney Ewan Hancock, and Louise Burns (like much of the album was).
Bishop says the new single “was energetic, fun to play and had lots of room left for the musicians to put their own spin on. One thing that still stands out to me is the interplay between Courtney, Louise, and my vocals in the second verse. I really love how they come together and meet in the middle. I feel so fortunate to have such talented players on this track and album.”
Check out a live performance below, recorded at 604 Records & featuring a litany of Vancouver’s finest musicians, and find the self-titled album out now!
Kirk
“Blissfully Unaware” by Shred Kelly
Following up their tour for their new album Blurry Vision, Shred Kelly’s summer tour is in full swing, hitting up just about every music festival you can think of right across the country!
The band also released a new music video for the song “Blissfully Unaware” from said new album. Of the track, Sage McBride says: “Throughout the past few years, I’ve felt an anxiety that I haven’t experienced before in my life. I’ve felt like I’ve changed (not necessarily for the better), whereas some people appear unchanged over the past few years. But it seems like I’ve experienced a monumental shift for me.”
Check the video out below and catch the band this summer on the road.
Christine
“Blowing Kisses” by Jennifer Castle
It’s been over three years(!) since we’ve heard new music from Jennifer Castle, but last week she released a brand new single, “Blowing Kisses”, a country-soul ballad that highlights her gorgeous voice, and features string arrangement by Owen Pallett.
Castle explains, “‘Blowing Kisses’ is a love letter sent from the very front of the occuring present moment. Language can be so futile; I always loathe explaining myself, and yet my love for you makes me want to try, my hands gesturing in endless loop. One day I will no longer be here to revere the buoyancy of the blue lake. I’m held by the loving energy of God. Every rose has its thorn, truly, but let’s focus on the rose for now.”
You can check out the video below, or you may just hear it if you’re watching season 3 of The Bear (fun story, Jennifer Castle has been friends with Matty Matheson since they worked together in a restaurant years ago!)
Kirk
“Seasons Come, Seasons Go” by Cuff The Duke
Cuff The Duke is back!
This was an unexpected and very welcome email in my inbox, but there is new music from Cuff The Duke for the first time in 10 years!
Of the journey back:
“Breaking Dawn (out September 6th), is a deeply personal exploration of frontman Wayne Petti's journey with mental health. For the single, “Seasons Come, Seasons Go,” the band laments the passage of time and departures of old friends. The song took shape after their first manager, William "Skinny" Tenn, passed away of cancer and then a few months later, hearing the news that Dallas Good (The Sadies) passed away. Those two individuals had a big influence on Petti’s early days as a musician.”
The song is beautiful, and both dark and light at the same time, with a haunting violin that reminded me of the title theme from Deadwood. I cannot WAIT to hear more.
Christine