The Wednesday Night Heroes - Guilty Pleasures

Wow.

I knew we could expect big things from BYO Records this year, as they celebrated their 25th year as a label, but I had no idea what a banner year it was going to be.

First there was Nothington's All In, and then Clorox Girls and J'aime Les Filles. The strength of those two records alone could spell out "good year" for any independent label. But then BYO turns around and gives us The Wednesday Night Heroes.

Canada's best-kep secret since... I don't know... I can't think of any well-kept Canadian secrets. But then I live on the border with Canada, so I think I am privy to more Canadian secrets that the average US citizen. Their beer is good, and so are their hockey players. I'm digressing here, so let's simply say that Wednesday Night Heroes are Canadian and as punk as it gets. In fact, with Guilty Pleasures they have created an album that is anything but a guilty pleasure. Allow me a moment for some unabashed worship, and I'll say it's the best raw punk record I've heard yet this year, and probably last year as well.

It's one of those records that makes my job hard. Rather than review any new records, I just want to listen to this one over and over. But out of my duty to you, I will trudge on, and listen to some records that, while I'm sure will be good, will not be as good as this one. Sniff.

The Wednesday Night Heroes mix hardcore with punk anthems and end up with... well, I am just struck down with awe at what they've created, so you should simply accept that it's that good. Now read my full review of Guilty Pleasures by The Wednesday Night Heroes. Then, when the record comes out next week, buy it. Then play it. Loud. Then, while you're playing it loud, dare BYO to top this one before the year is over. They'll have a hard time doing it, but I'm still stoked to see what's up their figurative sleeve.

Cover art courtesy of BYO Records