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Intimate folk duo Fawkes & Hownd is purely authentic. Blending Canadian and American roots, Phöenix Lazare and Justin Kelley have created a songwriting style that feels as if they’ve invited you into their living room, sharing personal stories.
Partners in life and in music, Fawkes & Hownd met studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. The duo made an introduction with their 2019 EP Balancing Act, a five-song collection recorded live in Nashville that carries themes of growth, reflection and hope. Their songs chronicle journeys from small towns — Phöenix from Salt Spring Island, BC and Justin from Byfield, MA — to big cities and everything in between. Sharing new music for the first time in five years, Fawkes & Hownd are debuting a refined sound with their new EP Backroads out June 7th. The project features four original songs recorded at Barnhouse Sound Studio in Qualicum Beach, British Columbia. Backroads is self-produced by Justin Kelley and features the addition of Atom Lazare on drums and Sam Schuette on bass. “The production focus was to simplify and lead with intention,” Justin says. “We leaned on the musicianship of our band members, allowing for freedom of interpretation in service to the songwriting.” The album’s single “Follow You Anywhere” shares a new flavour of Fawkes & Hownd. The Fleetwood-inspired folk/rock groove is driven by crunchy electric guitar and upfront harmonies. “Follow You Anywhere” is an anthem for the lovers and the risk-takers; those who are unafraid to embrace the unfamiliar. Inspired by the couple’s cross-country moves and growing pains, it’s a spirited take on your not-so-typical love song. Backroads is a window into how Justin and Phöenix have grown since their last release, musically and emotionally. “These four songs reflect on where we came from and dream about where we’re going,” says Phöenix. “They were all written in the same weekend on a songwriting trip we treated ourselves to in 2023 when it felt like a new chapter was beginning.” Enter this new chapter with Fawkes & Hownd. |
