Sunday, September 27, 2009

Sunday Morning Coffee:: Crash the Car

I know we call ourselves the Canadian blog, but truth be told we've neglected a substantial amount of land that lies to the North. Sure, we mentioned Kim Barlow's collaboration with Mr. Kom, but we' haven't covered any artist from the territories.

Well, this morning that changes.

Kyle Cashen is the front man and songwriter for a rotating cast of characters known as Crash the Car. I suppose, naturally, that location really plays a part in shaping these epic, sad, beautiful songs, but I really had no idea what to expect when I loaded up They Built Houses Here. I don't think you can understand what it's like to live there until you do (especially when everyone I've ever known that's gone up North comes back glowing and tells stories with a pride and loyalty unlike any I've heard from other regions), and I think the same can be said about a community's music.

I'm not sure what I thought music crafted in the cold, dark hours of the Yukon would sound like - maybe like a more Canadian take on the lush chill that Sigur Ros crafts so well or some quirky bedroom pop driven by hours trapped inside - but the textures and influences revealed on We Don't Always Have Light give us all a little glimpse at life in the Yukon.

Despite the meticulous layering of instruments, Crash the Car shows that an appreciation of a simpler life is needed to survive and thrive in a city that removes convenience from the equation. Weather hits you in the face like a stinging jab, and the band portrays that chill perfectly, but the more engaging aspect is the solace of friends and the brief hope of first light gives a huddled warmth to the affair. They show a patience that is probably a pre-requisite for the region, as the melodies and gentle crescendos move at a slower pace, but show excitement and spontaneity that helps us all understand that music, like life, is often worth the weight.

This record isn't a light listen for the faint of heart, but Crash the Car has compiled a collection of stirring, beautiful songs that make me think that this band is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to finding hidden treasures in a new scene. Highly recommended.