by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
Motorists are a new band from Toronto but the members grew up together in Calgary, lifelong friends who have played in various bands for well over a decade. Set to release their debut EP, From The Wreckage, later this month via Planet of the Tapes, the album is a combination of well-worn power-pop, slacker punk, and the gentle side of krautrock that comes together to sound new and inspired. Comprised of Craig Fahner (Feel Alright), Matt Learoyd (WeKnew), and Jesse Locke (Tough Age, Chandra, Simply Saucer), the band bring their past experiences with them but push beyond with Motorists, aiming for something a bit more art-punk.
The band’s latest single, “Go Back,” is chock full of jangle, taking a post-punk and new-wave approach toward crooning romance, and doing it effectively over a motorik beat. Like the constantly shifting images in their side mirror, the sound of their guitars feels fluid and detached, circular in structure but held firmly in place by the tight structured rhythm. There are sweet harmonies and a bright-in-the-night sort of hook that jangles it’s new-wave pop essence with the utmost sincerity.