Feature: Montreal’s Art-Rock Band Museums Deserve a Visit

Montreal’s Museums are not your typical preserved piece of history; they are a dynamic force in constant motion. The art-rock quartet, consisting of Ali Kouri, Nic Barkun, Anthony Kameka, and Lou Raskin, draws inspiration from the city’s diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes. Their music pulsates with an electrifying energy, combining impulsive vocals with intricate guitar work to create a sound that is both captivating and immersive.

The band’s debut EP, “Sink Your Teeth in My Brain,” laid the foundation for their unique sound, blending female vocals with distorted guitars, powerful basslines, and driving rhythms. Following up with a double single, “Lost in Your Head” and “Can’t Stop Thinking About It,” Museums showcased their ability to infuse introspection with infectious intensity. Now, with their forthcoming six-song EP, “This Can’t Be It,” set to be released through Petit Village Records, Museums are gearing up for a summer performance at Osheaga – a testament to their growing presence in the music scene.

Lou Raskin describes Museums’ current phase as a period of alchemical growth, where the band’s collective creativity is blossoming. This transformative process is evident in their latest work, reflecting a newfound sense of confidence and cohesion. As they prepare to take the stage at Osheaga, Museums are poised to win over new fans and solidify their place in Montreal’s thriving music community.

In a conversation with Atwood Magazine, Ali Kouri and Lou Raskin delve into their deep connection to Montreal, the band’s evolution, and the joy of creating music together. Despite being a group of non-native French speakers in a predominantly Francophone city, Museums have found a home within Montreal’s diverse cultural landscape. Embracing the city’s unique neighborhoods and artistic enclaves, the band draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of experiences that Montreal has to offer.

While every city has its pros and cons, Museums find themselves enamored with Montreal’s vibrant cultural scene, which offers a multitude of experiences to explore. From diverse music scenes to historic neighborhoods, Montreal provides a rich tapestry of sights and sounds for Museums to draw inspiration from. However, the city’s perpetual construction and traffic woes serve as minor inconveniences in an otherwise bustling metropolis.

For Museums, Montreal is more than just a backdrop for their music – it’s a source of inspiration and creativity. With their upcoming EP release and a summer festival appearance on the horizon, Museums are poised to make a lasting impression on Montreal’s music scene and beyond. As they continue to hone their craft and refine their sound, Museums are a band on the rise, ready to captivate audiences with their infectious energy and imaginative storytelling.