Get ready, music lovers! The dynamic Guelph band, The J-Strokes, is all set to celebrate the release of their highly-anticipated seven-song album at Sonic Hall in downtown Guelph on Thursday, April 17. Fans can expect an electrifying evening filled with their signature alt rock pop sound, layered with blues, soul, and classic rock influences.

The band, formed in 2018, began their musical journey playing a mix of cover songs and original tracks. Guitarist Doug Roach shared insights into their recording process, stating, “We recorded our tracks at Escarpment Studios in Belwood, where I had previously completed several solo projects. It was the perfect space to capture the essence of our music.” The final touches were added in Roach's home studio, showcasing their dedication to the craft.

With multiple songwriters in the band, the creative synergy is undeniable. Guitarist Mike Sharp reflects on their collaborative process: “We love taking song ideas to rehearsal and seeing how they evolve. For this album, we honed in on our strongest material.”

Fans will be treated to a special live experience as the album release show will feature a live horn section, featuring Aaron Duncan and Jeremy Shute, both of whom contributed to the album. Drummer Brad Holy expressed excitement about the album's depth, stating, "Incorporating different instruments and vocal tracks really enhanced our sound."

Don Kudo, the band's bassist, couldn't hide his enthusiasm: “We are incredibly excited for our album release show. It feels like a milestone for us, and we can't wait to share our music with everyone!” The event will kick off with an opening act from The Mighty Speed, a local instrumental band known for their unique fusion of Afrobeats and reggae rhythms intertwined with jazz influences.

In case you miss the show on April 17, don’t worry! The J-Strokes will also be taking the main stage at Riverfest Elora on August 16, where they promise another unforgettable performance.

For those eager to support local music and enjoy a night of fantastic tunes, tickets for the album release concert are available at sonichall.ca. Don't miss out on this celebration of creativity and passion that captures the essence of Guelph's flourishing music scene!