WAXMEN – Eleven

Band: Waxmen
Album: Eleven
Shot of choice: tequila

We were asked to attend a WAXMEN show, but we were not able to attend. Fortunately, their entire album, Eleven, which was released earlier this year, is streaming on their MySpace. WAXMEN is a 3-piece rock band made up of James Stefanuk (vocals, bass), Tyson Froese (guitar, vocals) and Shawn Royal (drums). Their breed of rock is mostly alternative groove rock, but some tunes also bring a little straight up rock and roll. In July, these guys received some acclaim by winning the 2009/10 Toronto Independent Music Award for Best Alternative Rock Band.

This will sound a little redundant, but WAXMEN’s 11-song album, Eleven, is a solid effort by this Toronto-based trio. Stefanuk’s voice is a little reminiscent of some ‘90s alternative voices but backed with music that has a groovy-sounding twist. The album is good, but I think these guys are capable of pushing themselves harder to create more diverse tracks. That being said, the album features some guest vocals, hard-hitting drums, and great arrangements that show promise for their future.

With powerful vocals and a groovy sound, I’m curious about what these guys sound like live. The band prides themselves on their live shows and I watched a bunch of YouTube videos, but those rarely do anyone justice, so I guess I’ll have to see for myself. Get yourself to a WAXMEN show and, while you’re there, buy them shots!