Toronto band the Beaches surging in popularity with catchy pop hooks and rebellious spirit
Toronto-based band, The Beaches, is currently experiencing a surge in popularity thanks to their unique blend of catchy pop hooks, vibrant spirit, and genuine authenticity. At a stylish Bar Isabel eatery located in Toronto’s Little Italy, lead singer Jordan Miller, armed with her trusty Fender Precision bass guitar and a Spanish Negroni in hand, quips about the practicality of her instrument. Miller explains that her bass guitar is her weapon of choice, allowing her to freely move around on stage without any discomfort to her figure; however, she humorously notes that her hair extensions often get tangled during her energetic performances. As a female musician, she emphasizes the various challenges that come with the territory, highlighting the thought and effort required to navigate the male-dominated music industry.
The four talented women who make up The Beaches are unapologetically honest and refreshingly candid in their responses, contributing significantly to their charm as a band. Known for their charisma, stylish aesthetics, and infectious pop melodies, The Beaches gained widespread acclaim for their viral hit “Blame Brett” from their award-winning album “Blame My Ex.” This album not only earned them the prestigious Juno Award for the top rock album but also secured them a place as a Polaris Music Prize finalist. In “Blame Brett,” Miller boldly asserts her stance as the “bad guy” in the song dedicated to her ex-boyfriend, Brett Emmons, the frontman of The Glorious Sons. The lyrics reveal her decision to move on from dating rock stars, expressing a desire for a change and a preference for individuals outside the music industry.
Leandra Earl, the band’s guitarist and keyboardist, further elaborates on their appeal, emphasizing the importance of relatability and authenticity in their music. As one of the primary lyricists behind the band’s recent single “Lesbian of the Year,” Earl underlines the significance of connecting with their audience on a personal level. The band’s relatable lyrics and genuine onstage presence have resonated deeply with fans, particularly young female listeners seeking representation and empowerment in the music scene.
The Beaches recently sat down for an engaging interview over lunch to discuss their upcoming album, “No Hard Feelings,” slated for release on August 29th. This album marks a significant milestone in their career, following their journey from opening for The Rolling Stones to headlining major shows across North America. Their trajectory from humble beginnings as a local band performing late-night gigs to becoming a household name in the music industry is a testament to their perseverance and dedication.
Despite facing setbacks, including being dropped by a major record label, The Beaches chose to embrace their independence and sign a distribution deal with AWAL, a subsidiary of Sony Music. This strategic decision allowed them to explore their creative freedom while connecting with a broader audience through their infectious pop sound. Their new manager, Laurie Lee Boutet, played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s musical direction, encouraging them to infuse more hooks into their songs and embrace a more playful yet pop-oriented sound. This deliberate shift in their musical approach not only revitalized their sound but also bolstered their connection with younger audiences, particularly female listeners between the ages of 16 and 24.
As they gear up for a new chapter in their musical journey with the release of “No Hard Feelings,” The Beaches continue to defy expectations and captivate audiences with their infectious energy and undeniable talent. Their meteoric rise serves as a testament to the enduring power of authenticity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to their craft, solidifying their status as one of Canada’s most promising musical acts.