Toronto-based alt-rockers Mad Ones return with their fourth full-length album, Last Forever, a diverse 10-song collection ranging from raw, punk-infused bangers to hook-laden anthems embellished by strings and horns. Led by singer/guitarist Andrew DeVillers and bassist Russ Fernandes, they received contributions in the studio by Canadian indie rock legends Jose Contreras (By Divine Right) and Andy Magoffin (Two Minute Miracles), among others. Sadly, Mad Ones’ drummer Adam Balsam — who also played with The Wilderness Of Manitoba and Most Serene Republic — passed away on Oct. 27, leaving Last Forever as one of his final recorded performances.
Mad Ones will be getting back on the road at the appropriate time, adding to their long list of notable performances that includes CMW, Sled Island, Steamwhistle Craft Beer Festival, SXSW, M For Montreal and NXNE, along with support slots for The OBGMs, The Dirty Nil, PUP, The Growlers, Dilly Dally, Sam Coffey & The Iron Lungs, Pack A.D., The Thermals, HotKid, PS I Love You, Bash & Pop (Tommy Stinson of The Replacements), and many others.
‘Breakdown’ is a poem for time and distance and whether or not peace and prosperity are possible amidst chaos. It is a meditation on our proximity to circumstances and our enduring love for those who contribute something powerful in our lives. The bed tracks were recorded live at Canterbury Music Co. in Toronto, and horns were added by Andy Magoffin and Dwight Schenk. ‘Breakdown’ was also one of our dearly departed bandmate Adam Balsam’s favourite Mad Ones songs.
