Modern Space – Before Sunrise EP

(If you like: The Arkells, Tokyo Police Club, Hollerado)

There is a growing love for Canadian indie rock bands, with more and more acts popping up, and a gradual take over on radio stations and streaming services. Groups like The Elwins, Zerbin, and Ivory Hours have their early predecessors such as The Arkells, Tokyo Police Club, and Mother Mother for paving the way, as music lovers around the world take Canadian indie rock more seriously with each highlighted release. Toronto five-piece Modern Space are taking advantage of the thriving genre, and have shared a stand-out debut effort Before Sunrise EP.

After recently signing to Warner Music Canada, the indie pop quintet are continuing to grow in popularity through the Spotify Spotlight 2016 program, being chosen as a Canadian band to watch and being heavily included throughout the streaming service.

And the success is well deserved; the seven-track collection heads in a steady upwards direction, with infectious guitar hooks, and enthusiastic delivery throughout the track list, starting with the rim-tapping opening of “Rule Brittania” to the passionate, dreamy closer “Little Lies”.

The ideal recipe for catchy indie rock is not forgotten in Before Sunrise. Off-beat clapping, full-band harmonies, and dancing guitar riffs all within a 4/4 time signature give most of the tracks the charm and irresistibility of the genre. “Rule Brittania”, the groovy rockabilly of lead single “Pen to Paper”, and high-energy “Festival Express” lift the EP to its full potential, as obvious influences from earlier bands cumulate into fresh, vibrant original tracks.

And even the so-called “B-side” tracks highlight the polished sound the major label release has facilitated. “Only A Dream”, “Carpet Dreams”, and “Last Time” – the song Before Sunrise gets its name from – are entertaining tracks; although they may not stand the test of time, they will certainly be enjoyed in the present.

With all eyes on them, Modern Space are heading on a cross-Canada tour, including sold-out stops with The Arkells. Becoming increasingly known for their captivating live performances, 2016 already boasts of being their year. Head to their website for more information and tickets.

Tour dates:

* = with The Arkells

January 16, 2016: Guelph, ON – DSTRCT

January 19, 2016: Sudbury, ON – The Townehouse

January 21, 2016: Sault Ste Marie, ON – Lop Lops

January 22, 2016: Thunder Bay, ON – Black Pirates Pub

January 23, 2016: Winnipeg, MB – The Pyramid

January 24, 2016: Saskatoon, SK – Capitol Music Club

January 27, 2016: Regina, SK – The Exchange

January 28, 2016: Calgary, AB – Flames Central *

January 29, 2016: Calgary AB – Flames Central *

January 30, 2016: Edmonton, AB – Shaw Conference Centre *