Rock trio CANVAS have released some intense, experimental singles in the past, but nothing is as groundbreaking as their 8th epic release “Just Like Me”, a gritsy, folk-rock hybrid about fighting one’s inner demons. With over 250,000 plays across streaming platforms, CANVAS is becoming a staple in New York’s indie scene, a scene that is notoriously hard to break into. The track begins with a plea between demon and host, escalating to lead singer Nowell screaming “Spare us” in the cathartic chorus. The song has a dark, southern-rock feel, with notes of Pantera and Black Label Society, as acoustic guitars mix with marching drums, slide guitars, and spacey harmonica riffs. Add Nowell’s effervescent vocals and an eerie calmness giving way to the cinematic explosion of the final chorus, and the song feels like it could be out of The Walking Dead or Breaking Bad.
On writing the record, lead singer/songwriter Jerid Nowell says: “Killing one’s demons is something people struggle with their whole lives. It can sometimes feel as though we’re trying to kill another human being because of how difficult it can be. We tried to personify this struggle by humanizing the idea of a demon that is exactly like us. When push comes to shove, we have to decide whether or not to eliminate it or let it be a part of us, suffering the consequences as a result.” The tough but relatable subject matter gives the otherwise ethereal song a level of groundedness, and feels like a fitting single to be released ahead of Halloween. CANVAS may be sophisticated in their lyrical ability and level of musicianship, but their music and universal message remains accessible to a large audience, making the band poised to be one of this year’s breakout acts.
CANVAS is a New York-based alt rock trio consisting of singer-songwriter Jerid Nowell, Billboard-charting producer/keyboardist Daniel Glavin, and drummer Jesse Rothman. CANVAS is committed to experimentalism, sonic diversity and exploration, thriving in unchartered territories outside of traditional genres. Influenced by styles like Bluegrass Folk, Punk/Metal and Hip Hop, the trio have sparked a musical journey ranging from triumphant anthems to soulful ballads, with notes of pop, rock and funk. CANVAS has built up a loyal fan base in New York City, and their music has been streamed over a quarter of a million times across platforms. Not only are they fantastic musicians, but they are also entrepreneurs, operating their own record label and recording studio Penthouse Studios. With their new single “Just Like Me”, CANVAS once again lives up to their self-proclamation: Genreless, Timeless, and Relentless.
