In the ever-evolving landscape of Canadian rock, The Discarded has emerged with their sixth studio album, “The Green Door,” marking a significant milestone in their musical journey. This father-and-sons trio, hailing from Orangeville, Ontario, has crafted a collection that merges the raw energy of garage rock with the unapologetic spirit of punk.
At the heart of this new release lies “Ooh Yeah!”, a hypnotic garage rock anthem that serves as a testament to the band’s evolving sound. Frontman JP Wasson penned this track in the intimate setting of his living room, a space that has become the crucible for The Discarded’s creative process. The song’s structure is a masterclass in tension and release, opening with a mesmerizing guitar groove that builds to a crescendo, punctuated by the titular exclamation.
Behind the boards for “The Green Door” is John Critchley, a producer whose pedigree includes work with Elliott BROOD and Dan Mangan. Critchley’s touch is evident in the album’s polished yet vibrant feel, transforming basement jam sessions into a cohesive sonic experience. His expertise, honed through years of crafting Juno-winning projects, brings a refined edge to The Discarded’s high-octane sound.
Adding depth to the album’s sonic palette is Michael McKenzie, a veteran of the Canadian rock scene. McKenzie’s guitar work spans from gritty garage rock riffs to solos that evoke the spirit of ’60s and ’70s rock, enriching The Discarded’s musical tapestry. His contributions, particularly on tracks like “Testify!” and “Ooh Yeah!”, showcase the band’s ability to honor their punk roots while embracing a broader rock spectrum.
The Discarded’s lineup, featuring JP Wasson on guitar and vocals, alongside his sons Caden Jax Wasson on drums and Jared Dean Wasson on bass, brings a unique familial synergy to their music. This dynamic is further enhanced by the recent addition of Ben Keestra on guitar, solidifying their powerhouse sound. Their collective experience, from JP’s roots in Canada’s early punk scene to the youthful energy of his sons, infuses “The Green Door” with a multi-generational perspective on rock.
The album’s cover art, inspired by a World War II graveyard near the D-Day beaches in Bayeux, France, adds a layer of depth to the project. Conceptualized by Caden Wasson and brought to life by illustrator Rachael Muir, the artwork depicts a symbolic green door as a portal to another dimension, set against a graveyard backdrop. This visual metaphor reflects the album’s themes of introspection and existential contemplation.
As “The Green Door” hits the airwaves, it stands as a testament to The Discarded’s growth since their formation in 2016. With nearly 100 live shows under their belt and shared stages with legends like The Sonics and Teenage Head, the band has honed a sound that resonates with both long-time punk aficionados and new listeners alike. This album not only captures the raw energy of their live performances but also showcases their ability to craft thoughtful, powerful songs that push the boundaries of their genre.
“The Green Door” represents more than just a new collection of tracks; it’s a bold statement from a band that continues to evolve while staying true to their punk rock ethos. As The Discarded opens this metaphorical green door, they invite listeners to step through and experience a sound that’s both familiar and refreshingly new in the Canadian rock landscape.
