The Warped 45s

Toronto-based cousins, singers and multi-instrumentalists Ryan Wayne and Dave McEathron have both recorded as solo artists, but now join with Holy Microphone bassist Mark Gabriel, Flophouse keyboardist Kevin Hewitt and drummer/singer Hamal "Silky" Finn Roye as The Warped 45s. This six-song EP was produced by John Critchley (13 Engines, Elliott Brood) at his Green Door Studios, and its sound hits some familiar touchstones. The harmonies and southern gothic element of opener "Why Have You Passed Me By Grim Reaper" are reminiscent of The Band, you can hear Van Morrison in the somewhat somber "Radio Sky," and there's a Neil Young influence in "(Bring On That) New Depression." "I've Been Around," an up-tempo, melodic roots-pop number, is the disc's best track. There are rockier guitars on "Turners Alley," while things end on a mellower note with "Saint Christopher." There's promise here, and a lot more songs are apparently waiting in the wings, so keep an eye out for the next record.