Canadian rock outfit keeping true to tradition

Aug 11 2008 by Katie Campling, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A BUNCH of brash Canadian boys are to hit northern stages this month.

Les Gars are about to embark on a 26-date tour of the UK, which will see them gigging almost non-stop until October.

The trio – Vello Verder, Jon Hawkes and Marc Delparte – come from Toronto and have enjoyed a swift rise to popularity since forming in February this year.

These boys write about what they know best – girls, booze, cigarettes, lust, minimum wage and most of all, rock ‘n’ roll.

But while they might write about love, they are certainly not romantic mummy’s boys.

Despite being new on the scene, their music is as gritty as if it were being performed by old timers, with vocals that sound like the singer was weaned on whisky and basslines that drive the songs relentlessly forward.

Les Gars have just finished a month-long residency at London’s Metro venue, which went down a storm.

They have fitted several dates into their own tour so that they can appear with Louis XIV and Jubilee and played at the Beached and MyHouse festivals.

Les Gars have a new EP out – entitled La Physique and produced by Brian Karscig.

But they don’t want you to simply listen through your speakers.

No, if you’re curious about this band you will have to see them live, as the EPs are only on sale at their gigs.

Although, if you really can’t get there, be patient until September when they hope to release the EP through the Believe label.

To find out more about the band, visit www.myspace.com/lesgars. You can catch Les Gars at the following dates:

August 20, Manchester Roadhouse. This gig will be with Louis XIV and tickets cost £8.50. Doors 7pm.

September 7, Sheffield Leadmill. With Jubilee. Tickets £6, doors 7.30pm.

September 11, Manchester Night and Day. With Jubilee. Tickets £6, doors 7.30pm.