Montreal’s Isabelle Banos, better known as the driving force behind Caveboy‘s synth lines, steps out from behind the synth-bass with her debut solo project, Ballsy. “Bisou,” her self-produced EP dropping April 5th, is a potent blend of pop-punk nostalgia, grunge grit, and a touch of suburban melancholy.
The six tracks here make up a sonic scrapbook meticulously crafted by Banos herself. Each track feels like a portal back to that glorious, awkward teenage phase – blasting tunes in your bedroom with reckless abandon or aimlessly cruising on a skateboard with your crew, the world a blur of scraped knees and untamed emotions.
The opening track, “Be Your Baby,” sets the tone perfectly. It’s a catchy, in-your-face bop with jangly guitars and vocals that soar with a hint of defiance. It’s raw, it’s emotional, and it’s undeniably catchy.
“Joe Millionaire” follows suit, a playful middle finger to the climate crisis. It’s a sonic Molotov cocktail, exploding with crunchy guitar riffs and harmonies that are as infectious as they are relevant.
Banos showcases her songwriting chops on “Person,” a track that takes a more introspective turn. Here, vulnerability takes centre stage, with relatable lyrics that resonate deeply. It’s a beautiful reminder that even the toughest exteriors can hold a wellspring of emotion.
The angst returns with “Holy Water,” a frenetic exploration of manipulation and growing pains. The lyrics, with their haunting refrain of “I try to wash my mind,” weave a powerful narrative, all underscored by a simple yet effective guitar solo.
But Bisou isn’t all rage and rebellion. “Wannabe” takes a dreamy detour, a shoegaze-infused ballad with a keyboard melody that shimmers like moonlight on a lake. Banos’ vocals here are a stark contrast to the raw power she unleashes elsewhere.
The EP closes with “Eulogy,” a fittingly sweet ending. Imagine Alvvays and Yeah Yeah Yeahs getting lost in a shoegaze haze, and you’ve got the picture.
Bisou is a confident debut – a testament to Banos’ talent as a musician, producer, and creative force. It leaves you wanting more, which is a great sign for any first outing. This feels like just the beginning for Ballsy, and we’re excited to see where she takes us next.
Ballsy will be celebrating the release of her EP on Sunday, May 26, at Bar Le Ritz with Fraud Perry (presented by Blue Skies Turn Black) – TICKETS.
Photo – Andy Jon
Share this :
