No Beauty release debut album

Coming out of the music scene of Hamilton, Ontario, No Beauty is a newcomer trio that brings together the talents of lead singer, songwriter and guitarist Helena Alexandria, bassist Jonathan Malstrom and drummer Will Fachin. The band stitches together diverse musical elements, threading through danceable power pop, indie folk, and gritty alternative rock.

At the heart of each song is Alexandria’s distinctive voice and personal storytelling, wrapped in a soundscape that can be both crushing and deeply emotive. Taking inspiration from the likes of Jason Molina, Phil Elverum and bands such as Horse Jumper of Love and Big Thief, No Beauty has swiftly begun to make their own impact in the local music scene.

The band’s origin story is a classic something-from-nothing tale; Jonathan Malstrom, amidst his solo projects and touring with Hamilton’s Basement Revolver, and Helena Alexandria, newly accepted into Humber’s music program, met at a friend’s birthday party. Their first conversation sparked a mutual admiration for each other’s musical tastes, leading to the formation of No Beauty.

Enlisting Will Fachin, one of Malstrom’s long-time collaborators, to complete the rhythm section, the trio found an instant chemistry. Those fortunate enough to catch No Beauty live can confirm the heartfelt and magnetic energy that shines from their performances which stems from their deep bond and shared passion for music.

Last month they unveiled their shared sonic vision to the world with the debut single “JUNE,” quickly followed up by sophomore outing “so do i.” Now they bring us their most ambitious and expansive work to date, their debut record titled No Beauty Will Remain, featuring eight tracks recorded entirely by the band themselves in their basements and rehearsal rooms, offering the perfect snapshot of the band’s first musical chapter.

Opened by the laid back drum taps and strummed acoustic guitars of “so do i,” soft vocals spin hushed leads above to craft a mellow and brisk intro piece that delicately swells with the gentle splash of drums and twang of guitar leads. Lead single “JUNE” follows with lively energy as the charging drums propel driving guitars and Helena’s expressive vocals carrying catchy hooks above the energising arrangement to deliver an epic dose of indie rock.

“Hourglass” brings a lightly bouncy rhythm with the patter of drums and playful instrumental flutters as Helena’s hushed vocals rise as the arrangement builds around her voice. Other highlights on the record include songs like “Alexandria Ottoline Endellion” which pairs the bold strike of drums with crunch of guitar chords to craft an anthemic sound capped by silky vocal leads, building to a rousing crescendo of fuzzed out alternative rock cut with folk-tinged writing.

The album closes with “Black Dog Shadow” where distant guitar plucks flow into lilting rhythms, crafting a soft indie folk scene above which Helena spins emotive leads to deliver the perfect finale to the band’s sensational debut record. With a follow up album already in the works, fans won’t have to wait long for their next dose of No Beauty’s superb musical output on what’s sure to be their breakout year.

Listen to No Beauty Will Remain below