Quick Hitters:: Mike Duguay

We've talked about The Burning Hell until we are blue in the face here on herohill. Although Mr. Kom is usually given the credit for the tracks - deservedly so - his traveling collection of rogues transform ukulele tracks from whimsical, witty treasures into smoking romps that get even the most strict of video lotto machine player at Gus' Pub to shake their ass quarters cup.

One of those essential cogs is Mike Duguay. You might know him from countless other projects as well (Evening Hymns, Weird Weather) but Michael is also a prolific song writer and right now you can grab his debut EP for free over at Zunior.

It's a quick hitting three-song treat - essentially an amuse bouche to pique your interest for his debut full-length - but don't let the price tag cheapen the affair. Lion's Share kicks off with the rollicking, electric guitar and keys heavy anthem, Not My Party. The 5-minute jam builds off a simple guitar riff and some nice keyboard work, but slowly gains confidence and swagger. The last-two minutes finds Duguay cranking up the guitar and keys, throwing in some great group vocals, horns and a bouncing bass line that gets you moving. It's a more complete effort than anyone has the right to expect from a solo, songwriter EP and shows the talent the young Peterborough stable possesses.

What really grabs me about this EP is that even though Duguay obviously crafts these songs on his own and the core of the tracks form the foundation, he never shies away from stepping layers into the mix. The title track starts like a tender, coffee shop affair but blossoms into a fleshed out track that has you straining to hear each and every subtle texture that's introduced as you nod along to the hook. On the final track, The Kettle Black, Duguay proves he's a convincing story teller. The two-minute folk nugget never moves faster than a leisurely walk, but Duguay's voice keeps you listening.

Basically, Lion's Share EP does exactly what it sets out to accomplish. Duguay gets his name out there, and proves he can be the center of attention, not just a key supporting player. I'm already looking forward to the full length, and I think after a couple of listens, I think you will be too.

PS - Head over to his myspace and take a listen to his electro Xmas duet with Evening Hymns. He sets the bar quite high for Ricardo and his Oldfolks Christmas project that we will be revealing soon.

MP3:: Mike Duguay - Not My Party

MP3:: Mike Duguay - The Kettle Black
MYSPACE:: http://www.myspace.com/mikeduguay
BUY:: Download at Zunior

Labels: Canada, Mike Duguay, Music, Ontario, Peterborough, Quick Hitters, The Burning Hell