Propter Hawk releases debut record

Emerging from the corners of Toronto in Canada, Propter Hawk has forged a distinct and captivating sound that harks back to the golden days of rock and roll music. Formed in 2020, this rock outfit comprises lead singer Malorie Blake, Andrew Blake on rhythm guitar, Alec McEachern on lead guitar, Brian Derro on bass and drummer Jimmy Ruddock. Their music is a bubbles in a cauldron of influences and sounds, fusing together the spirits of artists like Humble Pie, The Beatles, The Band and Otis Redding in a blazing cocktail of musical brilliance. Formed from the ashes of former bands and the convergence of musical souls through serendipitous classified ads, Propter Hawk’s journey is one that takes the audience on a time-traveling adventure through rock history.

Resilient and undeterred by the challenges posed by the pandemic, Propter Hawk rises as a musical force to be reckoned with. Their dedication to preserving the raw essence of rock led them to Pineship Sound in Toronto, where they crafted their debut self-titled album. Collaborating with Carlin Nicholson and Mike O’Brien of Zeus, the band channeled their energy into vintage gear and live horn sections, creating a sonic tapestry that embodies their musical vision.

With a trio of enticing singles already under their belt, the band now brings us their eponymous album, Propter Hawk. This full-length record stands as a stunning showcase of their unrelenting passion for crafting a distorted vision of a new era of guitar-driven music. The album kicks off with the infectious “Sherry Flip,” a track that sets the tone with swaggering rock n’ roll spirit. Infused with twanging guitar tones, a pulsating beat and Malorie Blake’s compelling lead vocals, the song captures Propter Hawk’s knack for delivering memorable melodies with an exhilarating delivery.

In “Clean Old-Fashioned Hate,” the band delivers a bright and upbeat atmosphere within a rhythmic indie rock soundscape where the intricacies of the guitar work shine,and the charming songwriting takes to the fore. “If You and I Could Be as Two” transports listeners to a timeless realm with its captivating blend of guitar, piano and brass tones, unveiling a bluesy dimension that further amplifies the band’s creative depth.

Throughout the album, songs like “Telephone” showcase the band’s unique ability to blend lightly crunching guitar riffs and a shuffling beat, forming the perfect backdrop for Malorie Blake’s commanding vocals. In the closing moments, “Theatre of the Whole World,” envelops listeners in its grooving energy, leaving them with an indelible taste of Propter Hawk’s rock prowess, before the album concludes with “Kinmount Fair (Reprise)” a soothing instrumental outro led by warm brass tones backed by intricate acoustic guitar for a fitting finale to the band’s truly impressive first record.

Propter Hawk’s debut album is a journey through the sonic corridors of time, where vintage influences are beautifully interwoven with a contemporary touch. With each track, they paint a vivid picture of cynicism, heartache, disparity and an array of other themes, enveloping listeners in an enthralling experience. Guided by Carlin Nicholson and Mike O’Brien, their music was recorded using vintage instruments and captured on ½” analog tape. The result is a magnum opus that boasts passionate vocals, gritty guitars, dynamic rhythms, harmonious choruses and resonant lyrics.

As their music reverberates through the streets of Toronto and beyond, Propter Hawk’s presence is taking shape on the global stage. Their debut album serves as a superb example of the enduring power of rock and roll, an invitation to embark on a sonic adventure and a promise of an unforgettable journey through a new chapter of rock music.

Rhythm guitarist Andrew Blake shares, “We’ve been sitting on the album for a while, trying to build some hype at home before letting go of the reins. The big question that we get all the time is ‘where is the record?’ and we figured that it is time to let it drop.”

With Lead guitarist Alec McEachern adding, “It’s exciting to finally get the songs out in the format that we wanted, as a collective rather than individual singles. We’re excited to let the cat out of the bag.”

Listen to Propter Hawk below