The Joys - Unfold

I was pretty excited to receive my copy of The Joys' long awaited sophomore release Unfold. Their fun and playful Demolition Sessions CD came out in physical form only a couple of years ago, but the songs were actually a little bit older, back when the band was still called Popjoy, and a lot has happened in the space between those songs and these ones. A detailed summary of the last few tumultuous years are documented well in the band's bio, but let's just say that they've taken all of their experiences, good and bad, and channeled them artistically into a release that is a giant leap of progression for the band.

It's been noted that my tastes tend to be a little bit schizophrenic at times, but growing up a teenager in eastern Ontario means that I listened to a lot of classic rock. From a musical standpoint, The Joys remind me of some of those great 70's and 80's rock bands, some of which have risen to great praise, and others who have not. The first song on the CD is also the first single Soul On Your Sleeve, which charges out of the headphones with unabashed classic rock riffage that demands attention. I've reviewed the single a few months ago, and it has only ripened with age. It's no surprise that the single has now achieved gold status here in Canada. Killer tune.

The next two tracks (Storm and Fly) are just as killer, reminding me of My Morning Jacket just as much as they remind me of AC/DC. In other words, although the classic rock appreciation is obvious, to refer to the band as a mere throwback would be granting them a serious disservice. This album is a display of emotive vocals and stellar musicianship that sounds very current. Come Alive is another highlight, where the band adds a touch of funk to the mix, with Mike McKeys guitar 'wocca' being impossible to resist. Partway through the song Jesse O'Brien tinkles away at the keys in a way that would've made Boston's Tom Scholz proud. And Archie Gamble is once again proving what he has already showcased on the previous album: an amazing rock band is only recognizable when propelled by a capable drummer. Archie is more than capable.

The most obvious improvement however is in the vocal stylings of one of my favorite local frontwomen, Sarah Smith. Her vocals have always reminded me of some of the salty throated sirens of the past and present like Melissa Etheridge (whose voice I always appreciated more than her songs,) and of course, Janis. But this time around, while that rasp is probably even more in your face than ever, there seems to be a vulnerability that truly tugs at the heart. This is most noticeable in the title track and last song on the album, Unfold. There's a moment in the chorus where her voice lets out this imperfectly perfect shrill that goes right through me. It's one of those songs that requires you to stop and take a breather once it's finished, just so that you can remember where you are and carry on with your day.

The album is not perfect and there are moments where it starts to lag just a little bit, but overall it comes highly recommended, and I'm sure that the band's recent signing to Koch Records will give them the added exposure that they deserve, making them another rock 'n roll savior in the local music scene.

Unfold will be available nationally at all HMV, Sunrise Records and CD Plus stores on July 8th.

The Joys are playing a CD release party at The Horseshoe on Friday July 11th. They'll be sharing the stage with Free Press, Jets To Ground and The Scenario. It's $8.

Photo by Dana Brushette
Myspace: The Joys