Therapists are expensive, but writing songs is free, so Daniel Busheikin (vocals, guitars, synth, album art) uses music to confront his neuroses. No Frills evolved from a solitary bedroom project to a full band, also featuring Mike Searle (bass), Maddy Wilde (vocals, synth), Jon Pappo (drums), and Matt Buckberrough (guitar). On their debut DIY album Downward Dog you’ll hear 14 wobbly lo-fi songs about depression, defeat and death, without getting heavy or dark. The “bummer pop” of the Toronto-based 5-piece is appealing and straightforward, thanks to the relatable and comforting tragicomic lyrics, but even more so because of the earworm melodies – jangly guitars and moody synths – and melancholic vocals. This is a sound that you can easily embrace, that somehow doesn’t let you go when you immerse yourself in it. Therapeutic, heart warming and addictive. RIYL: Badly Drawn Boy, Refrigerator, EELS, Mac DeMarco.
“Honestly // It’s all just a matter of time // But I love a long goodbye”
“Every moment gained is // A moment gone”
“Just an idea I could stay home alone tonight // You go ahead, I’ll be fine”
Downward Dog is out now digitally (self-released). Add to wantlist: Bandcamp