Following the release of their previous three singles “Devil Teasin’ Me,” “The Way I Am,” “Too Soon To Know You,” and the news of their highly anticipated forthcoming studio album Restless, Canadian roots and rock band The Commoners are pleased to announce their Summer 2024 UK Tour that will see them touring the UK with festival and club dates from July 19 – 28th.
Planet Rock will run a 48-hour ticket pre-sale from 10am GMT on Wednesday April 3rd via PlanetRock.com.
The summer jaunt kicks off with a performance at London’s The Grace (July 19), followed by Maid of Stone Festival (July 20). The band will then play various club dates in Milton Keynes’ Crauford Arms (July 21), Newbury’s Arlington Arts Centre (July 24), Manchester’s Night &Day Café (July 25), Edinburgh’s The Caves (July 26), Leeds’ Belgrave Music Hall (July 27), and finishing off at Steelhouse Festival (July 28).
The band are currently riding high on Planet Rock Radio with their latest single “The Way I Am” which is currently on high rotation on the A list. The single follows hot on the heels of their previous single “Devil ‘Teasin Me” that received over 100 spins on Planet Rock. Both songs are taken from the band’s forthcoming studio album, Restless, released by Gypsy Soul Records on Friday 5 July.
Watch the official music video of the band’s single “The Way I Am” on YouTube HERE.
Following their critically acclaimed 2022 sophomore album Find A Better Way, on their upcoming album, Restless, the Canadian Roots-Rock quintet continue their musical journey to provide listeners with a hearty dose of Southern-style swagger accentuated with slide guitar, organ swell, and heartfelt vocals.
Having wrapped up a bustling 2023 filled with recording sessions and a UK tour alongside Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton, The Commoners have solidified their position as a must-watch act.
A natural evolution from their 2022 album Find A Better Way, the forthcoming album Restless offers a peek behind the curtain of success, revealing the gruelling routines and ragged emotions that hide behind the glamorous aesthetic of a rock band on the rise. With introspective, slower-tempo numbers pocketed amongst rip-roaring anthems, the new album, recorded at RHC Music in Toronto, is a portrait of a hardworking group revitalizing a classic genre.
“As with our previous album, we wanted to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots,” says the Commoners guitarist and producer Ross Hayes Citrullo. “By adding the soul and rock elements of The Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of The Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across all of those music genres.”
Restless – Track Listing
1. Devil Teasin’ Me (4.25) 2. Shake You Off (4.00) 3. The Way I Am (3.42) 4. Restless (5.17) 5. Gone Without Warning (7.07) 6. Who Are You (Ain’t Knocked Down) (4.15) 7. Body And Soul (5.34) 8. See You Again (4.42) 9. Too Soon To Know You (5.11) 10. All That We Have (3.20)
PLANET ROCK 48-HOUR TICKET PRE-SALE STARTS 10AM GMT ON WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL 2024 VIA PLANETROCK.COM – TICKETS ON GENERAL SALE AT 10AM GMT FRIDAY 5 APRIL FROM WWW.THECOMMONERS.CA & ALTTICKETS.COM
Following the success of their previous two new singles “Devil Teasin’ Me” and “The Way I Am,” Canadian roots and rock band The Commoners are pleased to announce the Friday 8thMarch release of “Too Soon To Know You” – the third single taken from their highly anticipated third studio album, Restless. Released by Gypsy Soul Records on Friday 21 June 2024, the new album is available to pre-order at www.thecommoners.ca/store.
Following their critically acclaimed 2022 sophomore album Find A Better Way, the Canadian roots rock quintet continue their dedicated musical journey to provide listeners with a hearty dose of Southern-style swagger accentuated with slide guitar, organ swell, and heartfelt vocals.
“Too Soon to Know You” is available today, March 8, 2024, across all major streaming platforms, and promises to be a sonic testament to The Commoners’ evolving musical journey. The single is available to stream HERE.
Lively organ and crisp guitar support a soaring top line in this reflective track that wonders what might have been. Stirred by nostalgia, singer Chris Medhurst reminisces about a bond broken by time, offering a listen that will surely inspire a trip down memory lane. “Too Soon To Know You” will stick in your head for several days.
Having wrapped up a bustling 2023 filled with recording sessions and a UK tour alongside Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton, The Commoners have solidified their position as a must-watch act.
The release of Restless will mark the quintet’s return to the road in 2024, with numerous festivals in the UK and EU, including Made of Stone, Steelhouse, and Moulin Blues Festivals, already scheduled for this summer. From the speakers to the stage, one thing is certain: The Commoners are spearheading a party rock renaissance, and the audience is cordially invited.
Combined with Ross Hayes Citrullo’s infectious guitar riffs, the new single delivers a song of quality and distinction. It’s the perfect follow-up to the previous singles, “Devil Teasin’ Me” and “The Way I Am.” “Devil Teasin’ Me” proved a popular staple on UK rock radio, with a 10-week run and over 100 spins on Planet Rock.
A natural evolution from their 2022 album Find A Better Way, the forthcoming album Restless offers a peek behind the curtain of success, revealing the gruelling routines and ragged emotions that hide behind the glamorous aesthetic of a rock band on the rise. With introspective, slower-tempo numbers pocketed amongst rip-roaring anthems, the new album, recorded at RHC Music in Toronto, is a portrait of a hardworking group revitalizing a classic genre.
“As with our previous album, we wanted to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots,” says the Commoners guitarist and producer Ross Hayes Citrullo. “By adding the soul and rock elements of The Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of The Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across all of those music genres.”
RESTLESS – TRACK LISTING
1. Devil Teasin’ Me (4.25) 2. Shake You Off (4.00) 3. The Way I Am (3.42) 4. Restless (5.17) 5. Gone Without Warning (7.07) 6. Who Are You (Ain’t Knocked Down) (4.15) 7. Body And Soul (5.34) 8. See You Again (4.42) 9. Too Soon To Know You (5.11) 10. All That We Have (3.20)
Approx. Running Time: 45 minutes
TRACK BY TRACK
Devil Teasin’ Me – A bonafide banger with anthemic group vocals and electric riffs, “Devil Teasin’ Me” captures self-reckoning wrapped up in rock ’n’ roll. Lush background voices lend heat to the chorus, supporting Medhurst through a feverish performance.
Shake You Off – Gutsy guitar and driving percussion push “Shake You Off” from the speakers, initiating a gripping track that will have heads bobbing from start to finish. Punchy bass and searing organ pierce the arrangement, rousing listeners to a fever pitch as The Commoners attempt to break loose from restraints.
The Way I Am – A rowdy riff catapults The Commoners into “The Way I Am”, joined by kick drum thuds that strike the chest, immersing the listener in a track made for stadiums. Tension builds into an infectious chorus spiked with vocal support by Sandra Bouza. A guaranteed hit, “The Way I Am” sees The Commoners united in conviction, playing with the confidence of a band that knows exactly who they are.
Restless – Delicate picks and strums open “Restless”, lending a subtle Celtic feel to the track which evolves into a flourishing arrangement with piano and harmonic guitar accents. Within “Restless”, The Commoners unpack life on the road, folding the struggle and discomfort of pursuing a dream into a show-stopping number.
Gone Without Warning – A gritty riff puts fire under “Gone Without Warning”, launching The Commoners into a track that boils over with tension. Featuring a heavy hitting chorus with soulful backing vocals by Chantal Williams, the track is further elevated by the combined voices of bassist Ben Spiller and drummer Adam Cannon.
Who Are You (Ain’t Knocked Down) – Crunchy guitar cuts through the speakers, accented by stark percussion, and piano in this true party rock anthem. Certain to raise listeners to their feet, “Who Are You” features peppy organ alongside call and response vocals that kick this confrontational track into overdrive.
Body And Soul – Ambient slide guitar and viscous drones set the tone for a smoky and sultry number with a masterful arrangement that goes down smooth. Throbbing with rhythmic bass and percussion, “Body And Soul” traps The Commoners in a tangle of temptation.
See You Again – A true roots-rocker, “See You Again” is an ode to love and loss, good times and memories made, featuring a chorus fit for kicking up dust on the backroads with the windows down. Full-bodied acoustic guitar guides this track through contemplation to celebration.
Too Soon To Know You – Lively organ and crisp guitar support a soaring top line in this reflective track that wonders what might have been. Stirred by nostalgia, singer Chris Medhurst reminisces about a bond broken by time, offering a listen that will surely inspire a trip down memory lane.
All That We Have – Resonant acoustic guitar pairs with an honest vocal performance by Chris Medhurst for a reflective, poignant track. Lyrically centered around acceptance and finding peace through life’s troubles and existential anxieties, “All That We Have” is a tender affirmation of support.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
The Band Chris Medhurst – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar Ross Hayes Citrullo – Lead Guitar Ben Spiller – Bass, Vocals, Piano (Who Are You, Gone Without Warning) Adam Cannon – Drums, Percussion, Vocals Miles Evans-Branagh – Organ, Rhodes, Piano (See You Again, Restless, Too Soon To Know You) Chantal Williams, Nicki Lawrence, Sandra Bouza – Backing Vocals
The Team All songs written by The Commoners Produced by Ross Hayes Citrullo and The Commoners Executive Producer – Renan Yildizdogan Recorded at RHC Music, Toronto, Ontario
Album mixed by Ross Hayes Citrullo and Renan Yildizdogan (RYCH) Engineers – Ross Hayes Citrullo, Ben Spiller, Adam Cannon, Renan Yildizdogan Assistant Engineers – Adil Batty, Ben Byck, Jon Savard, Dylan Davis, Emily Goguen Mastered by Pete Lyman at Infrasonic Mastering, Nashville, Tennessee
The Commoners are on track for another banner year with the release of their highly anticipated third album, Restless. Released by Gypsy Soul Records on Friday 21 June 2024, the highly anticipated new album features ten tracks that grip your senses and make you groove. The album’s available to pre-order in various formats at www.thecommoners.ca/store.
Following their critically acclaimed 2022 sophomore album Find A Better Way, the Canadian Roots-Rock quintet continue their dedicated musical journey to provide listeners with a hearty dose of Southern-style swagger accentuated with slide guitar, organ swell, and heartfelt vocals.
“The Way I Am,” the second single taken from the new album, will be released digitally on Friday 26th January 2024. The song is available on all streaming platforms HERE, with the music video now streaming on YouTube HERE.
Kicking through the speaker with high energy and grit, “The Way I Am” bears an unapologetically wild spirit, effectively setting a tone that matches the album’s edgy theme. Chris Medhurst’s lead vocals plead and pry over Ben Spiller’s pulsing bass and AdamCannon’s rhythmic percussion, steering the verses into a true rock n’ roll chorus supported by rich harmonies and wailing riffs.
Combined with Ross Hayes Citrullo’s infectious guitar riffs, the new single delivers a second helping of anthemic, guitar-driven rock. It’s the perfect follow-up to the previous single, “Devil Teasin’ Me” which proved immensely popular on British classic rock radio including a 10-week run and over 90 spins on Planet Rock.
At just over three and a half minutes long, “The Way I Am” rocks from top to bottom, fuelled by a band whose performances. As Devils Gate Music says, “it’s a riotous celebration of life.”
A natural evolution from their 2022 album Find A Better Way, Restless offers a peek behind the curtain of success, revealing the gruelling routines and ragged emotions that hide behind the glamorous aesthetic of a rock band on the rise. With introspective, slower-tempo numbers pocketed amongst rip-roaring anthems, the new album, recorded at RHC Music in Toronto, is a portrait of a hardworking group revitalizing a classic genre.
“As with our previous album, we wanted to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots,” says the Commoners guitarist and producer Ross Hayes Citrullo. “By adding the soul and rock elements of The Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of The Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across all of those music genres.”
With 2023 rounding out a busy year of recording and touring the UK, in support of none other than Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton, The Commoners are an act to keep tabs on. The release of Restless will see the quintet greeting the road once more in 2024, with two UK festivals (Steelhouse and Maid of Stone) already slated for July, and more dates to be announced in the coming weeks. From the speakers to the stage, one thing is certain: The Commoners are ushering in a party rock renaissance, and we’re all invited.
RESTLESS – TRACK LISTING
1. Devil Teasin’ Me (4.25) 2. Shake You Off (4.00) 3. The Way I Am (3.42) 4. Restless (5.17) 5. Gone Without Warning (7.07) 6. Who Are You (Ain’t Knocked Down) (4.15) 7. Body And Soul (5.34) 8. See You Again (4.42) 9. Too Soon To Know You (5.11) 10. All That We Have (3.20)
TRACK BY TRACK
Devil Teasin’ Me – A bonafide banger with anthemic group vocals and electric riffs, “Devil Teasin’ Me” captures self-reckoning wrapped up in rock ’n’ roll. Lush background voices lend heat to the chorus, supporting Medhurst through a feverish performance.
Shake You Off – Gutsy guitar and driving percussion push “Shake You Off” from the speakers, initiating a gripping track that will have heads bobbing from start to finish. Punchy bass and searing organ pierce the arrangement, rousing listeners to a fever pitch as The Commoners attempt to break loose from restraints.
The Way I Am – A rowdy riff catapults The Commoners into “The Way I Am”, joined by kick drum thuds that strike the chest, immersing the listener in a track made for stadiums. Tension builds into an infectious chorus spiked with vocal support by Sandra Bouza. A guaranteed hit, “The Way I Am” sees The Commoners united in conviction, playing with the confidence of a band that knows exactly who they are.
Restless – Delicate picks and strums open “Restless”, lending a subtle Celtic feel to the track which evolves into a flourishing arrangement with piano and harmonic guitar accents. Within “Restless”, The Commoners unpack life on the road, folding the struggle and discomfort of pursuing a dream into a show-stopping number.
Gone Without Warning – A gritty riff puts fire under “Gone Without Warning”, launching The Commoners into a track that boils over with tension. Featuring a heavy hitting chorus with soulful backing vocals by Chantal Williams, the track is further elevated by the combined voices of bassist Ben Spiller and drummer Adam Cannon.
Who Are You (Ain’t Knocked Down) – Crunchy guitar cuts through the speakers, accented by stark percussion, and piano in this true party rock anthem. Certain to raise listeners to their feet, “Who Are You” features peppy organ alongside call and response vocals that kick this confrontational track into overdrive. Body And Soul – Ambient slide guitar and viscous drones set the tone for a smoky and sultry number with a masterful arrangement that goes down smooth. Throbbing with rhythmic bass and percussion, “Body And Soul” traps The Commoners in a tangle of temptation.
See You Again – A true roots-rocker, “See You Again” is an ode to love and loss, good times and memories made, featuring a chorus fit for kicking up dust on the backroads with the windows down. Full-bodied acoustic guitar guides this track through contemplation to celebration.
Too Soon To Know You – Lively organ and crisp guitar support a soaring top line in this reflective track that wonders what might have been. Stirred by nostalgia, singer Chris Medhurst reminisces about a bond broken by time, offering a listen that will surely inspire a trip down memory lane.
All That We Have – Resonant acoustic guitar pairs with an honest vocal performance by Chris Medhurst for a reflective, poignant track. Lyrically centered around acceptance and finding peace through life’s troubles and existential anxieties, “All That We Have” is a tender affirmation of support.
ALBUM PRODUCTION CREDITS
The Band
Chris Medhurst – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar Ross Hayes Citrullo – Lead Guitar Ben Spiller – Bass, Vocals, Piano (Who Are You, Gone Without Warning) Adam Cannon – Drums, Percussion, Vocals Miles Evans-Branagh – Organ, Rhodes, Piano (See You Again, Restless, Too Soon To Know You) Chantal Williams, Nicki Lawrence, Sandra Bouza – Backing Vocals
The Team
All songs written by The Commoners Produced by Ross Hayes Citrullo and The Commoners Executive Producer – Renan Yildizdogan Recorded at RHC Music, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Album mixed by Ross Hayes Citrullo and Renan Yildizdogan (RYCH) Engineers – Ross Hayes Citrullo, Ben Spiller, Adam Cannon, Renan Yildizdogan Assistant Engineers – Adil Batty, Ben Byck, Jon Savard, Dylan Davis, Emily Goguen Mastered by Pete Lyman at Infrasonic Mastering, Nashville, Tennessee
Album Photography by Lindsay White Album Design by Emily Goguen www.thecommoners.ca | @thecommonersto
Summoning listeners with dynamic guitar riffs and pulsing rhythms, Canadian roots-rockers THE COMMONERS present their brand new single “Devil Teasin’ Me” released Friday 22nd September 2023.
“Devil Teasin’ Me” is available to pre-save from all streaming platformsHERE.
“Devil Teasin’ Me” is the first single from the Commoners’ highly anticipated forthcoming third studio album, that will be released worldwide by Gypsy Soul Records in 2024.
“Devil Teasin’ Me” captures self-reckoning wrapped up in rock ‘n’ roll. The song strikes hot and smolders before it erupts into a sonic inferno that epitomizes the band’s signature crisp tones and rich production, established on their critically acclaimed second studio album “Find A Better Way” (Gypsy Soul Records, 2022).
On “Devil Teasin’ Me” pleading lead vocals question, “Is this who I’m meant to be?” all of which pulls the listener into the ring as vocalist Chris Medhurst battles personal demons. Lush harmonies and group vocals coil around spirited organ and driving percussion, fervidly gripping the track.
Faustian bargains aside, the quintet returns with confidence and a surety of sound that is the result of the fast-moving pace of rigorous touring. With two UK and European tours under their belt, the Commoners are well on their way to becoming one of today’s top roots rock and roll bands.
With more concerts on the horizon, catch them on tour in the UK for a nationwide tour supporting Samantha Fish and Jesse Daytonfrom 19-30 October 2023, followed by a headline gig at the Bourne Music Club on Wednesday 1 November (tour dates listed below).
Offering their own blend of rock and roll, southern blues, and roots music, the Toronto-based five-piece band are known for their high-energy riffs, soulful vocals, and rich harmonies. The result is an unforgettable, authentic Southern-style rock experience.
The band developed over the course of a decade, adapting through challenging times to form the line-up as it exists today which consists of Chris Medhurst (vocals, guitar), Ben Spiller (bass), Ross Hayes Citrullo (lead guitar), Adam Cannon (drums), and Miles Evans-Branagh (keyboards).
The Commoners unite under a shared dream: to write, perform, and share music that is an authentic nod to the greats who paved the way before them.
“Devil Teasin’ Me” embodies the spirit of rock, blues, soul, and roots,” says the band’s lead singer, Chris Medhurst. “We wanted to capture the sheer excitement of roots rock. This is the music that we listen to.”
“The Black Crowes are a considerable influence for us,” adds Medhurst. “Derek Trucks, Marcus King, Led Zeppelin, and The Allman Brothers Band, too. These are the bands that we wear on our sleeves as we aspire to create our own music and sound.”
“As with our previous album, we wanted to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots,” explains lead guitarist Ross Hayes Citrullo. “By adding the soul and rock elements of the Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of The Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across all of those music genres.”
Devil Teasin’ Me – The Musicians Chris Medhurst – Lead Vocals, Guitar Ross Hayes Citrullo – Lead Guitar Ben Spiller – Bass Adam Cannon – Drums Miles Evans-Branagh – Keyboard, Background Vocals Chantal Williams – Background Vocals Nicky Lawrence – Background Vocals
The Commoners photo by JC Polien – Troy Redfern photo by Will Carter
Two of the hottest blues rock acts have joined forces to embark on what promises to be one of the most exciting co-headline tours in recent years. Critically acclaimed roots/blues rockers The Commoners embark on a 15-date UK tour in April 2023 with the UK’s King of slide guitar, Troy Redfern.
Planet Rock’s 48-hour ticket pre-sale starts 10am on Wednesday 11th January 2023 via the exclusive ticketing link HERE.
“The Commoners are back, and clearly they mean business.” – Classic Rock
“A killer album from start to finish, The Commoners have delivered a real beauty dripping in quality, rich in its roots/rock heritage, they’ve absolutely nailed it.” – Rock N Load
The Commoners will perform tracks from their current album “Find A Better Way” which includes the singles “Fill My Cup,” “Find A Better Way,” and “Too Much.”
Classic Rock Magazine describes the new album as “Rootsy, soulful and bluesy, these are timeless songs steeped in classic rock tradition.”
The band is comprised of Chris Medhurst (lead vocals), Ross Hays Citrullo (guitar), Ben Spiller (bass guitar), Adam Cannon (drums), and Miles Evans (keyboards).
“Find A Better Way” was produced and mixed by the band’s guitarist Ross Hayes Citrullo, while the title track single was mixed by award-winning record Australian record producer Kevin Shirley (Joe Bonamassa, Black Crowes, Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin).
Watch the music video for the “Find A Better Way” single HERE.
“Troy Redfern really comes over as a breath of fresh air in the blues rock world today. There isn’t one wasted moment on the album.” – Music News.com
“Troy Redfern has the best record of his career on his hands with The Wings of Salvation. Highly recommended.” – Rock Blues Muse
Hot off from winning Hard Rock Hell’s “Blues Artist of the Year” award and following hot on the heels of his recent singles “Come On,” “Gasoline,” “Sweet Carolina,” and “Mercy,” Troy Redfern’s current album, “The Wings of Salvation” has fast become the critics’ favourite and best-selling album to date.
After releasing an unprecedented six albums in just under two years, “The Wings of Salvation,” is being hailed as Redfern’s most compelling work to date. The album highlights Redfern’s powerfully edgy vocal delivery, condensed song writing skills, tight arrangements, complimented by his trademark “firebrand” slide guitar playing, giving him the moniker of Britain’s King of Slide Guitar.
Classic Rock Magazine made “The Wings of Salvation” their “Blues Album of the Month,” and said, “Sweet Carolina, thankfully, is more Bolan-Stones stomp than Neil Diamond syrup, while Come On is the best here, sharing a little bit of DNA with ZZ Top’s La Grange and stealing Muddy Waters’ pay-off (‘Got my mojo workin’). At this creative pace, you couldn’t catch him in a runaway stagecoach.”
Over the past 15 months, Troy has toured the UK with Robert Jon & The Wreck, The Quireboys, The Sweet,DARE, and When Rivers Meet, picking up new fans every step of the way. Championed by the UK’s Planet Rock, Troy’s singles “Come On” and “Sweet Carolina” have had repeated plays on the classic rock radio station’s main playlist. Troy recently played Planet Rock’sRockstock Festival and will play Planet Rock’sWinter’s End Festival on February 5, 2023.
Watch Troy’s music video for his single “Sweet Carolina”HERE.
Canadian classic rock roots and blues rock band THE COMMONERS release the title track single Find A Better Way, the third single taken from the forthcoming album Find A Better Way on Friday September 30th. The single is mixed by legendary producer Kevin Shirley (Joe Bonamassa, Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin) and is available to buy and stream HERE.
The album is released on CD, limited edition vinyl and digital by Gypsy Soul Records on Friday November 4th, and is available to pre-order from www.thecommoners.ca. and pre-save from https://lnk.to/TheCommonersFABW.
The Commoner’s lead singer, Chris Medhurst, describes the Find A Better Way single as follows – “Our current world throws a lot of challenges at us all. We don’t have control over that, but we do have control over how we respond. Find A Better Way is a powerful rock anthem that speaks to the challenges we must overcome and our need in humanity to find a better way.”
Possessing a sound tapped from the oaken belly of a whiskey barrel, The Commoners are a four-piece classic rock, roots, blue rock band from Toronto, Canada.
Described as “a classic rock and roll affair,” the nine songs on the new album take the listener on a sonic voyage through the lives of the band, from the dusty back roads of rural Ontario to the bright lights of the big city. Offering their own blend of rock and roll, southern blues, and roots music, the Toronto-based four-piece band are known for their high-energy riffs, soulful vocals, and rich harmonies. The result is an authentic Southern-style rock experience.
The group was cobbled together over the course of a decade, adapting through numerous obstacles to form the unit as it exists today: Chris Medhurst (vocals/guitar), Ben Spiller (bass), Ross Hayes Citrullo (lead guitar), and Adam Cannon (drums). Often joined by their friend, organist Miles Evans-Branagh, The Commoners unite under a shared dream: to write, perform, and share music that is an authentic nod to the greats who paved the way before them.
“The new album authentically embodies the rock and roll, soul, and blues rock experience,” says the band’s lead singer, Chris Medhurst. “That’s something we really wanted to bring back. That’s the roots. That’s what we listen to.”
The Black Crowes are a considerable influence for us,” says Medhurst. “Derek Trucks, Marcus King, Led Zeppelin, and The Allman Brothers Band, too. These are the bands that we wear on our sleeves as we aspire to create our own music and sound.”
Find A Better Way is an album that demands attention from the first note. The opening lines “If I scream at the top of my lungs, and stamp my feet, ’til the floor comes undone,” immediately inform that a wild ride lies ahead. The album was recorded and produced at RHC Music in Toronto by the band’s guitarist Ross Hayes Citrullo. Ross collaborated with executive producer Renan Yildizdogan to strike the perfect balance of new and old recording treatments. The goal was to create something that felt new and original, yet still familiar to their target classic roots rock and blues rock audience.
“The vision from the beginning was to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots,” explains Citrullo. “By adding the soul and rock elements of the Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of the Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across all of those music genres.”
The album’s lyrical themes drill into the essence of humanity: love, regret, ambition, and fear. Circling the forever challenge of doubt vs. desire, The Commoners place themselves into the shoes of the everyman. The result? Nine tracks that function as a comfort and companion through all of life’s trials and tribulations, with melodic solos, soaring organ, and a punchy rhythm section to drive the messages home.
Drummer Adam Cannon says, “Music, like so much in life, is about the exchange of energy,” and The Commoners make more than a fair trade. Striving to present an impactful, memorable, and downright exhilarating live experience that accurately represents their recorded works, the band carries the listener over spirited choruses and group chants, before returning them back to earth in need of a shot of something smooth. You can expect to leave fully satisfied, sweat drenched, and heart racing, a good time guaranteed—just what we all need.
The Commoners enlisted a handful of Toronto’s finest musicians to help bring their record to life. On the title track Find A Better Way, the band brought on keyboardist Jeff Heisholt (The Trews) to lay down an iconic organ track. For the rest of the album, keyboardist Miles Evans-Branagh performed organ, piano, and Rhodes.
To accompany Ben and Adam on backup vocals, The Commoners called upon three of Canada’s top backup singers. Tash Lorayne and Shezelle Weekes (The Arkells), and Chantal Williams joined in to arrange vocal parts and enliven the mix with their vivacious voices resulting in a spine-tingling performance.
The Commoners also invited local legend Michael Eckert to lend his pedal steel talents on I Won’t and Alive. Adding the final cherry on top, renowned multi-instrumentalist Ben Healey treated Deadlines to a guitar solo worthy of the world’s greatest stadiums. Though these songs were all written by The Commoners, the contributions of these amazing guest musicians make the album something special.
“Every time we brought an outside player into the studio, they would offer their own unique instincts and interpretations of each song. This helped the album grow into a collaborative art piece that continues to surprise us with every listen.”
A rock anthem to its core, the title track, Find A Better Way, carries a message that encapsulates the entirety of the record. With growing uncertainties, society faces challenges previously unseen, leaving the collective in a perpetual state of questioning, with doubt directed towards governments, public leaders, and our neighbours. From the aftermath of COVID-19, the increasing mental health crisis in North America, war crimes in Ukraine, and the explosion of social movements and protests, one thought unites us all—we need to find a better way to co-exist on this planet. Find A Better Way takes an inward look at confronting our tumultuous past and accepting personal accountabilities to uncover the strength needed to seek a solution.
Find a Better Way is the only track on the record to mixed outside of Canada. The band worked with legend Producer/Mixer Kevin Shirley (the Black Crowes, Joe Bonamassa, Led Zeppelin) at Caveman Studios in Sydney, Australia. Kevin’s mix helped set the perfect tone for the album, which Ross Hayes Citrullo was then able to follow for the rest of the record. Kevin’s involvement set The Commoners on the right path with this epic title track.
Mastering was also an important consideration for the band and their label. For this stage, the team sent their record all the way to Nashville, Tennessee to Pete Lyman (Tedeschi Trucks, Blackberry Smoke, Chris Stapleton, Rival Sons) at Infrasonic Sound. Pete’s specialty for mastering southern rock made the mixes come alive, making them sonically competitive to the band’s influences.
As a collective, we find ourselves emerging into a changed society, with uncertainty looming and shadowing the future. In their upcoming release, The Commoners remind us that music has a unique ability to heal, a medicine of extraordinary merit, and balm for the soul during dark times. Every major movement in history gave rise to change makers, and The Commoners are taking their stand, here to lead and inspire us all to Find a Better Way.
“FIND A BETTER WAY” – TRACK LIST
1 – FIND A BETTER WAY (4:36) 2 – FILL MY CUP (4:22) 3 – MORE THAN MISTAKES (2:56) 4 – TOO MUCH (3:57) 5 – NATURLLY (4:30) 6 – I WON’T (4:15) 7 – DEADLINES (3:46) 8 – HANGIN’ ON AGAIN (7:06) 9 – ALIVE (4:52)
ALBUM TRACK BY TRACK
FIND A BETTER WAY Two words. Rock Anthem. A rip-roaring intro launches the band into an epic, empowering song with a resonant message. The cry to confront our tumultuous past and accept personal accountabilities has never sounded better. Gang vocals urging “Don’t walk away from me,” and a biting guitar tone immediately grab the listener, refusing to let go until they heed the call to find a better way.
FILL MY CUP A roots rock classic with introspective verses and a chorus that will promptly raise hairs, Fill My Cup is the album’s spirited first single. Made for sun-filled Saturday afternoons, high-energy riffs, and emotive vocals elevate this track to higher ground. Featuring the talented Chantal Williams on backup vocals, Fill My Cup strikes hard with a message that screams through the speakers. One listen and you’ll be saying, “How ‘bout another round?”
MORE THAN MISTAKES The rock train rolls on full steam ahead with the punchy and rollicking More Than Mistakes. Bright tambourine accents a rhythm section to rival Motown, illuminating a track that will instantly push listeners to the edge of their seats, raising them to their feet. Alive and free, More Than Mistakes affirms the album’s theme of self-empowerment with gusto.
TOO MUCH Erupting with the growling vigor of an old Beaumont, Too Much drives The Commoners to the brink of surrendering their dreams for the comforts of home. A high horsepower performance peels out with rowdy riffs and lively organ in tow, delivering a relatable sentiment that never proves to be too much.
NATURALLY Swelling with vulnerability, and hard truths, Naturally confirms that honesty writes one hell of a song. A sparse intro pours into a symphony of voices, wrapping the listener like a pair of welcoming arms for a chorus that hits like an arrow through the heart. Miles Evans-Branagh lays the foundation from which this ballad blooms with an organ arrangement that sighs and stirs, echoing an emotive vocal performance by Chris Medhurst.
I WON’T The twangy ring of guitars brings an element of country to I Won’t, featuring Toronto legend Michael Eckert on pedal steel. Lush harmonies abound, supporting a flourishing chorus drawing the listener into a mind plagued by second guessing and self-uncertainty. An unexpected bridge bends the ear, insisting you give a damn.
DEADLINES Demanding attention from the first note, the force of Deadlines is undeniable. Enthusiastic performances from each member combine for the ultimate trifecta: an uplifting, feel-good summer chorus, psychedelic bridge, and groove that will have even the most reserved of listeners stirring up the dance floor like a swizzle stick. A searing guitar solo by Ben Healey keeps the energy sky high, reminding listeners this is, primarily, a rock and roll album.
HANGIN’ ON AGAIN Worth every second of its 7:06 spin length, Hangin’ On Again is the magnum opus of the album. Telling a timeless tale of love and loss, the lead vocals dance the delicate line between tasteful and untamed with exquisite precision. The arrangement inflates from the onset with atmospheric guitar courtesy of Ross Hayes Citrullo, and organ before bursting into a fervent chorus highlighting The Commoners as masters of their craft.
ALIVE Concluding the album, The Commoners extend a final invitation into their sacred heart space with Alive. Bassist Ben Spiller lends his prowess to the piano, aligning with Michael Eckert’s pedal steel for a mesmerizing outcome. Alive calls into question the value we assign to that which is important to us in life. How are we to weigh a dream against daily responsibilities, and conjure belief from a well that easily runs dry? An unforgettable ending to an incredible journey.
ALBUM PRODUCTION CREDITS
The Band
Chris Medhurst – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar Ross Hayes Citrullo – Lead Guitar Ben Spiller – Bass, Vocals, Piano (5, 9) Adam Cannon – Drums, Percussion, Vocals
Miles Evans-Branagh – Organ, Rhodes, Piano | Jeff Heisholt – Organ (1) Michael Ekhart – Pedal Steel (6, 9) | Ben Healey – Lead Guitar (7) Chantal Williams, Shezelle Weekes, Tash Lorayne – Backing Vocals
The Team
All songs written by The Commoners Produced by Ross Hayes Citrullo and The Commoners Executive Producer – Renan Yildizdogan Recorded at RHC Music, Toronto ON
Track 1 mixed by Kevin Shirley at Caveman Studios, Sydney, Australia 2-9 mixed by Ross Hayes Citrullo and Renan Yildizdogan (RYCH) Engineers – Ross Hayes Citrullo, Ben Spiller, Adam Cannon, Renan Yildizdogan Assistant Engineers – Emily Goguen, Thomas Vitas, Serhii Artiukh, Austin Rossitter, Jon Savard, Dylan Davis Mastered by Pete Lyman at Infrasonic Mastering, Nashville, Tennessee Album Photography by Lindsay White Album Design by Emily Goguen
2022 Tour Dates
12/10/22 Norderstedt-Germany @ Music Star 13/10/22 Hoganas-Sweden @ Garage Bar TBC 14/10/22 Varberg-Sweden @ Maja’s 15/10/22 Avesta-Sweden @ Kulturgaraget 16/10/22 Stockholm TBC 18/10/22 Malmo-Sweden @ Folk & Rock 19&20/10/22 Hamburg-Germany @ Cowboy und Indianer TBC 21/10/22 Asendorf-Germany @ Break Out 22/10/22 Singwitz-Germany @ Kesselhaus 23/10/22 Burglengenfeld-Germany @ RockStürbl 24/10/22 Bratislava-Slovakia @ Muzeum Ochbodu 26/10/22 Bremen-Germany @ Meisenfrei 27/10/22 Köln-Germany TBC 28/10/22 Rimsting-Germany TBC 29/10/22 Fiesch-Switzerland @ Inch Bar 30/10/22 Switzerland TBC 31/10/22 Solothurn-Switzerland TBC 03/11/22 Barcelona-Spain @ Sala Textil 04/11/22 Castellon-Spain @ Sala Because 05/11/22 Orihuela-Spain @ La Gramola 06/11/22 Valladollid-Spain @ Puerta Caeli 07/11/22 Leon-Spain @ Babylon 08/11/22 Ourense-Spain @ Cafe Auriense 10/11/22 A Coruna-Spain @ Sala Mardi Gras 11/11/22 Cangas-Spain @ Salason 12/11/22 Valles-Spain @ Bocanegra 13/11/22 Vitoria-Spain @ Urban Rock 15/11/22 Chambery-France @ Brin de Zinc 16/11/22 Besançon-France @ Bar De L’U 17/11/22 Metz-France TBC 18/11/22 Krefeld-Germany @ Kulturrampe 19/11/22 Ostend-Belgium TBC
THE ROCK ALCHEMIST – Italian Rock Band from Turin with a strong sonic identity that blends modern rock with progressive, hard, alternative, and pop elements!
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