Down the Lees are a Vancouver-born trio poised to leave their mark with a sound that’s as diverse as it is raw. Their latest offering, the aptly titled “Dirt” EP (although at almost half an hour long, it’s kind of an album), is a genre-bending exploration that delves into the darker corners of human experience with a potent mix of musical influences.
Fronted by Laura Lee Schultz (whose musical pedigree includes stints in Queazy, Skinjobs, and New Years Resolution), Down the Lees began as a solo project. Schultz’s vision encompasses the atmospheric expanse of post-rock, the swirling textures of shoegaze, the visceral energy of hardcore, and even a touch of no-wave’s avant-garde spirit.
It all begins with the gently haunting strums of the title track, Schultz’s calm vocals lulling you into a false sense of security before the scuzzy guitars crash in just before the 2-minute mark. It’s a dynamic introduction that immediately has you sitting up and paying attention. The rest of the song keeps the listener guessing as it quickly jumps from an almost prog-rock vocal to a visceral hardcore riff and then back to the calm of the beginning of the track.
Recent single, “Douse,” further exemplifies this genre-hopping approach. Grunge forms the foundation, with a distorted riff that wouldn’t be out of place on a Nirvana record. But then, Schultz’s vocals take centre stage. A captivating blend of clean melodies gives way to soaring, emotional screams, creating a dynamic tension that mirrors the song’s emotional core. “Don’t you dowse my flame,” she repeats as the track roars back to life again.
The newly formed Canadian rhythm section provides a solid foundation throughout the record. Chris Carlson’s bass rumbles with a warm, growling presence that perfectly complements Andy Ashley’s intricate display of controlled chaos behind the drumkit as the music continues to throw unexpected curveballs.
“Downplay” takes a detour into stoner rock territory with a fuzzed-out riff reminiscent of Kyuss. “Dissolve,” on the other hand, is a post-rock soundscape that builds tension steadily before erupting in a cathartic explosion of noise. These tracks further emphasize Laura Lee Schultz’s impressive vocal range.
The lyrics delve into the “undeniable harsh truths of life,” as the press release aptly puts it. Songs like “Dead and Over” and “Since La Vie En Rose” examine mortality, while “Dead and Over” examines the false ideal of a perfect life that social media promotes.
It’s heavy material, meaning “Dirt” isn’t always an easy listen, but Schultz delivers it with a raw vulnerability that’s both relatable and strangely comforting. Throughout, it demands your attention and isn’t afraid to take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The resulting music is a potent blend of catharsis and complexity, and I bet these songs sound fantastic in a live setting.
“Dirt” will be released on 3 May 2024
Credits:
Recorded and mixed by Jesse Gander at Raincity Recorders
Mastered by Blake Bickel at Dynamic Sound Service
Cover art by Mirabelle Van de Put
Performed by Down The Lees
Down The Lees is:
Laura Lee Schultz – Guitar, Vocals
Chris Carlson – Bass
Andy Ashley – Drums
Photo – Ryan Wagner
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