WAXMEN

WAXMEN hang with the round table, talk music, and jam some tunes - Indie Round Table Podcast

View the YouTube interview - Indie Round Table

http://www.therock.fm/articles/view/waxmen - 94.9 The Rock FM - Oshawa

Shawn Royal has been endorsing Los Cabos Drumsticks since almost the beginning. He lives and works in Ontario and performs regularly with the Toronto based rock outfit, WAXMEN. And like so many of us, his story of how he got started playing drums is unique, inspiring and most importantly, entertaining.

“When I was a kid, I used to watch the TV show Happy Days in reruns,” he said. “A character on the show named Richie Cunningham played that sax and I thought was so cool, so my parents enrolled me in sax lessons when I was nine.”

It was during his sax lessons that he first heard drummers playing in an up-close and personal setting. That changed everything.

“When I first heard the drums, I thought to myself, ‘I have to learn how to do that.’ Without telling my parents, I would carry my sax to lessons but was secretly taking drum lessons instead. After that, I started hearing rhythms and patterns in daily life. Drums just really spoke to me.”

His secret drum lessons went on for almost a year before the cat came out of the bag.

“After a while, my parents were wondering why I was still playing the same three songs on the sax that I knew when I started lessons. When I finally came clean, they were really supportive and just happy that I found something I really enjoyed.” - Los Cabos Drumsticks

We were asked to attend a WAXMEN show, but we were not able to attend. Fortunately, their entire album, Eleven, which was released earlier this year, is streaming on their MySpace. WAXMEN is a 3-piece rock band made up of James Stefanuk (vocals, bass), Tyson Froese (guitar, vocals) and Shawn Royal (drums). Their breed of rock is mostly alternative groove rock, but some tunes also bring a little straight up rock and roll. In July, these guys received some acclaim by winning the 2009/10 Toronto Independent Music Award for Best Alternative Rock Band.

This will sound a little redundant, but WAXMEN’s 11-song album, Eleven, is a solid effort by this Toronto-based trio. Stefanuk’s voice is a little reminiscent of some ‘90s alternative voices but backed with music that has a groovy-sounding twist. The album is good, but I think these guys are capable of pushing themselves harder to create more diverse tracks. That being said, the album features some guest vocals, hard-hitting drums, and great arrangements that show promise for their future.

With powerful vocals and a groovy sound, I’m curious about what these guys sound like live. The band prides themselves on their live shows and I watched a bunch of YouTube videos, but those rarely do anyone justice, so I guess I’ll have to see for myself. Get yourself to a WAXMEN show and, while you’re there, buy them shots! - Buying Shots For Bands

Waxmen
@ Cherry Cola’s Rock n Rolla, Toronto
December 15th, 2012

Local stylishly-dressed heavy Alternative rockers on the rise, Waxmen, returned to the cozy, red velvet-walled, Victorian-themed atmosphere of Cherry Cola’s Rock n Rolla Cabaret and Lounge for their fourth annual “Wreck the Halls” Bash. “Wreck the Halls” is a benefit concert for Royal’s step-brother Scott, who was diagnosed earlier this year with pancreatic cancer. All proceeds from the concert went to the Pancreatic Cancer Canada Foundation, and the band has also set up a donation page which you can take a look at here.

After seeing the talented trio (vocalist James Stefanuk, who also handles bass; Bear Zak on guitar; and drummer Shawn Royal) rock out a few months back at the Toronto Independent Music Awards, I knew I would be in for an amazing show.

The Reed Effect kicked things off and included an excellent cover version of Hole’s “Violet” in their set.

I had the chance to meet all three Waxmen members before their set and they are the nicest group of guys. By the time the boys were ready to take over the stage the house was packed, and still more people were trying to get in! I had brought my friend along (after raving about this band that she just has to see), and eventually we had to leave our table to get closer so we wouldn’t miss anything.

The band was in excellent form. Propelled by Stefanuk’s richly deep, throaty delivery (Stone Temple Pilots comes to mind) of several songs including such highlights as “Soldier Girl,” “Better Off” with its roaring drum beats and slinky bass/guitar hooks, the slow Rock trip of “Cannon Ball,” from their debut Eleven, as well as tracks from their hot new EP Shadow, for which the video for title track is available for your viewing pleasure here.

With the lively playing of their instruments, and their bopping to the music, the boys really know how to engage an audience and the crowd loved it – myself included. Everyone was singing along and shaking to the beats, especially when “Shadow” and “Bad Dream” (another great track from the new EP) were performed. A couple of times Stefanuk even talked to the crowd, encouraging everyone to blast out an emphatic “FUCK YOU!” to cancer. Donations were encouraged, as well as sweet offerings of cookies and cupcakes for sale. The night was also special for the band as it was a dear friend’s birthday.

Overall, a fantastic show and their songs stay with you for a long time afterwards. Waxmen deserve mainstream success as they have a sound that is catchy, lyrics that are meaningful and they know how to develop a rapport with their audience.

– Charmaine Elizabeth Merchant (Facebook @charmaineelizabeth.merchant) - Spill Magazine

Shawn Royal is endorsed by Diril cymbals. - Diril Cymbals Canada

Alternative Rock trio Waxmen have just released their outstanding three-song EP, Shadow. The tracks, intensified by lead vocalist and bassist James Stefanuk’s powerful vocal delivery, are brought to life with meaningful lyrics, thumping drum beats and sizzling guitar hooks that will get your head shaking.

“Shadow,” the scorching title track is catchy with expert manipulation of the slick guitar chords, while “Go It Alone” starts off with subtle drums before speeding up the melody leading to a riveting Rock beat. The emotionally pumped “Bad Dream” is at a softer level than the other two, but this in no way diminishes their sound. All three songs are exquisite with “Bad Dream” being my favourite.

Completing Waxmen is Bear Zak, who handles guitar, and Shawn Royal on drums. The two also add their vocal abilities to the mix. The band has already garnered quite a following as evidenced by the packed dance floor when they performed at this year’s Toronto Independent Music Awards (TIMA). They had also won for the “Best alternative rock” category at the 2010 TIMA.

Check out their Facebook website for more information, a plethora of fab photos, and an extra special offer for fans in the form of a USB containing the Shadow EP, some artwork, Mobile Waxmen wallpapers and The Shadow teaser video! But it’s not enough to listen to the music; you must catch them live. These guys really know how to rock an audience with a captivating and lively performance. Their songs will stay with you long after you’ve heard them.

Waxmen are scheduled to play December 15th 2012 at the Cherry Cola’s Rock n’ Rolla. - Spill Magazine

“Winning the TIMA in 2010 really meant a lot to us. And, asking WAXMEN back to perform in 2012 is a real honour and we were thrilled to be able to share our new music with everyone,” said Waxmen drummer Shawn Royal. “The TIMAs are a fantastic thing for the Independent music scene in Toronto! We encourage people to support Indie musicians and check us out at waxmenmusic.com!” They just released their 3-song EP Shadow and fans can look out for an upcoming show in December. - Spill Magazine

Shawn has been a Los Cabos endorsed artist for 8 years. - Los Cabos Drumsticks

I had the pleasure of being introduced to three-piece hard rocking band Waxmen in their live incarnation, playing with Future History. To give you an idea of how much this band gives to their gigs, they thoroughly warmed up the crowd despite a sleepless, jet-lagged frontman. That’s so rock star, it hurts.

It shouldn’t be surprising: Waxmen brings an impressive pedigree of collective years established on the indie scene and a past win from the Toronto Independent Music Awards. Currently gearing up for a future album release, I felt it fitting to take a look at Eleven and give you a taste of the uncompromising approach to music that defines Waxmen. If, like me, the 90s hold a special place in your musical heart, listen up.

Solider Girl: Opening cut “Soldier Girl” is “single material”: it’s standard radio-friendly rock, done well, but knowing the rest of the album as I do, it’s not Waxmen at the top of their game. It’s not a bad song by any means, and from most bands cramming the airwaves, it would shine. The curse of being quality, right? Opening riff is particularly tasty on this one. Get used to that: the band’s got a knack for their guitar hooks.

Better Off: It’s safe to say that Waxmen fall into that alt-funked-rock niche, with moments of shredding that evoke early Metallica. This tune is heavier on that melodic funk than “Soldier Girl” and better exemplifies the band’s strengths. One can’t help but hear Stone Temple Pilots on this tune (and others to come) – in a good way. The grit-powered vocal with an undercurrent of vulnerability is Stefanuk’s specialty and such an asset.

Overcast: I love the swagger of this tune. It’s the sonic equivalent of bravado and confidence after a few rounds at the bar, cutting a path across a crowded room towards a woman or man of choice, knowing you’re going to get attention. There’s a near-jazz breakdown in the middle that’s playful and so enjoyable. A standout.

Outside: An anthem for those damned by the man and refusing to buckle. Guitars: very classic rock-era – a little bluesy; a little prog; lot of sass. I almost hear a little Led Zeppelin influence here – very tasty. I really feel, being this far into the disc, that “Soldier Girl” is the odd man out here.

Sticky Situation: A little more radio-friendly straight rock than other tracks, this one’s a highlight too. Catchy chorus meets tasty rock crunch and a groove that sticks in the skull. “You’re sleepwalking in a sticky situation” is one of the more memorable lyrics I’ve heard this year.

Cannonball: More down-tempo that the rest of the album, The “man down wrong” tune, perfect for a bitterness-cleansing night with a good buddy or two and a case of beer. Sweet guitar solo.

Way Down: Gloriously grungey. I’ve been having luck with acquiring bands that evoke my teen years lately, and Waxmen are one such band. I miss when bands really focused on the melodic capabilities of guitars – giving them their own voice, their own message to convey. Finger Eleven used to have it before that piece of crap “One Thing” went huge, but I digress. This song shifts in a few directions, really evoking a sense of free-fall.

Flesh And Bone: If you weren’t already feeling the 90s, here comes that “almost robotic/megaphone” vocal distortion we all got to know very well (Raine Maida was a heavy offender). Like “Way Down”, this one is a little shifty, keeping the sonic-scape fresh for the ears. A great headbanger for when you hate the world or just want to be alone, damn it.

Run Away: Horns! Me gusta! Sassy and filled with flair, this one’s another standout. Punchy lyrics, sneaky little horns. Again, a more classic approach to guitars – Billy Gibbons approves. Bluesy straight-up rock. This one comes off as a bit of an experiment and it pays off. I’d like to see more of this from the band.

Freak Accident: I can’t quite put my finger on the why of it, but this one just doesn’t grab me like others on this album. It may be partly that I feel it’s been done on this album already, to a degree. The guitars are a little plainer, for want of a better description.

Human Is My Name: What a contrast from the previous track! Clever wordplay peppering the lyrics in a rebellion against those who view people as products or perhaps chattel – extend that metaphor as broad as you care to. Compared to other tracks, the guitars aren’t as upfront, but that’s fitting, given the power packed in the lyrics. Solid album closer.

Final Comments: Waxmen do a great show at showcasing their strengths on this album, for the most part. What could, in other bands’ hands, be a pretty typical alt-rock outing transcends to something far more flavourful, thanks in large part to the guitar work and the bluesy groove slipping in between choruses. Stefanuk brings a strong voice made for rock to the table, and while he may never escape comparisons to Scott Weiland, he has his own sound.

What - Open 'Til Midnight

Established on the indie scene, Waxmen come out swinging, rock out hard and leave no ears untouched. 90s teens and tweens, remember when Edge 102.1 was nice and crunchy? Pearl Jam released Ten (still their best album), The Headstones rocked out with bluesy overtones, Big Wreck had That Song we all knew… It was a good era for alternative rock. Grungey, melodic ear candy. Well, that’s what Waxmen bring to the table. Moody lyrics are accented by delicious guitar riffs Billy Gibbons would approve. At times, they rock out hard enough to evoke Metallica’s black album. “Shadow” was my favourite tune of the set. Definitely check them out and stay tuned for a review of their last album, eleven. - 4 Right Chords

"Their sound immediately makes me want to dance around. I can see myself listening to these guys in the car sailing down the DVP at midnight as I relish the lack of traffic. They just make you feel good."
- Mikey Riot - Audiolust

"Their sound immediately makes me want to dance around. I can see myself listening to these guys in the car sailing down the DVP at midnight as I relish the lack of traffic. They just make you feel good."
- Mikey Riot - Audiolust

"Always tight in the pocket with a big sound to match...these guys really rock." - Gian Erguiza

"You guys are impeccably dressed, do you have day jobs as well?"
- Darryl Spring

"We happened to chance upon your show and you managed to redeem Canada's musical image in my eyes at least." - Joshua Wilson

http://www.torontoima.com/ - Toronto Independent Music Awards

"Always tight in the pocket with a big sound to match...these guys really rock." - Gian Erguiza