By Jason Daniel Baker
With Toronto-based indie singer-songwriter Basia Lyjak's new single 'Don't Talk,' she shows us that her 2007 five-song EP 'Writings on the Wall' was no fluke in terms of quality and appeal. But the new track expresses a much darker vibe and a more raw expression of feeling. The Silesian-Canadian sensuality Ms.Lyjak is known for takes a bit of a backseat to this hard rock statement by the powerful and dynamic vocalist.
The often cryptic quality of this lyrical narrative is enough to make one feel slightly off-balance, which I think is intended. I would not call what is heard in it stylistic variation upon her past successes, as much as a variation upon the feel it elicits from the listener. Ms.Lyjak and her songwriting partner Kyle Riabko seem to be exploring a darkly whimsical vibe here, which I happen to like.
"I'm so in love with this song, and I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with such great people. I can't wait for the world to hear it!" Basia says.
It offers up a sublime change of pace while still being melodically addictive but is of a kind which musical acts such as hers usually tend to leave behind when they become as successful as she now has. She is taking nothing for granted.
Guitarist Ron Bechard, drummer Glenn Nash and bassist Dave Careiro are the eclectic ensemble behind Ms.Lyjak whose steadfast work was essential to realising the potential the single has.
"Basia was like the Energizer Bunny in the studio," says the songÕ's producer, Brian Moncarz (The Junction, Pilot Speed) of Whirlwind Sound Studios. "We spent a day on vocals, doubling and harmonies, and she maintained the same enthusiasm and professionalism for the tenth take that she did for the first, always performing with incredible tone. It's great when you're having fun recording with someone, doing take after take just to see what you come up with, rather than out of necessity for better quality."
The Canadian rock scene is rapidly becoming very vibrant due to the efforts of Ms.Lyjak and other artists. What a shame it is that the local mainstream media is not taking as big a notice as it should.
