MUSIC REVIEW: SESSIONS' VOL 1

Review by Simon Marshall 05/07/2024

Cover art by Ashley Sloggett 

TORONTO/BURLINGTON VETERAN POP PUNKS, SESSIONS, IMPRESS WITH DEBUT EP "VOL 1"

LISTEN TO SESSIONS - VOL 1 BELOW

Sessions - Vol 1 (Released June 28, 2024) Review: Sessions is comprised of four longtime buds who have played in a bunch of different punk bands over the years - Out of Options, Bombing Neverland, The Spicoli, Aitch, etc. Their seven song debut EP “Vol 1” is a self released collection of pop punk bangers that were written around the time of the Covid lockdowns with no ambitious expectations from the band. 

The production of Vol 1 is lights out with its modern and rich sounding mix. This is not surprising as John Fielding (Sony Music ) has his name all over this release. The album kicks off with the title track, "Vol 1", and is larger than life with its epic vocal arrangements, piano parts and build up. If intended to be an intro, it does seem a bit disconnected transitioning into the next track "Sorry, Not Sorry" which is arguably the standout offering. 

The abundance of vocal harmonies and trade offs on lead vocal duties is what makes this album special and its on full display during this track. John’s vocals are melodic and dare I say reminiscent of the best moments of Senses Fail. 

Vocal duties are split 50/50 with the darker and sometimes moody vocals of Brandon Pascoa. His vocals on "Eat Your Tail" features arguably the album’s biggest chorus and has a nostalgic Ataris feel to it. The drum parts are well thought out which keep the songs interesting. The track "Kool-Aid" even switches things up with a dance beat. 

The pace of the record is steady although I wouldn’t mind hearing how this band might sound occasionally navigating through faster tempos. Additionally, there are just enough skatepunk riffs here to leave space for the vocals to shine while still sounding exciting. Try listening to this without catching yourself softly banging your head along to the melodies. If it’s not for the big choruses, the lead guitar riff on "Pretend" will surely do it.

 Overall, Vol 1 is a solid debut for these Toronto buds and sets the bar high for whatever is next. They can hang their hats on this release with confidence knowing that their experiment will be well received. Recommended listens: Sorry not sorry, Eat your tail, Pretend 

 4/5 

ALBUM CREDITS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE

Session Press Photo By Ashley Sloggett

Don't miss Sessions in Hamilton, Ontario September 20th at Skate or Dive with Belvedere, Authority Zero, Shift D and more. Tickets available below. 

WRITTEN BY SIMON MARSHALL

 Simon Marshall is a Project Manager who resides in Hamilton, Ontario with his wife and two daughters. He plays drums in the punk band Adelledaand is actively involved in the Southern Ontario music scene.

PLEASE SHARE THIS REVIEW