The steel deal

>> The United Steel Workers of Montreal
call it like they see it

ROUGH AND READY: USWM

by JOHNSON CUMMINS

Despite alt-country’s best intentions, most people still think of Hee Haw caricatures whistling Dixie while chomping on hayseed when they think of country. Mainstream country only perpetuates the myth while continuing to sink to brand new lows. Montreal musicians like Angela Desveaux, Lil’ Andy and Yonder Hill, though, are not only challenging the hometown hegemony of post-rock dullards and mopey shoegazers, but also people’s definition of country, “alt”-prefixed or otherwise.

One of the bands emerging from the Montreal alt-country scene is the United Steel Workers of Montreal, who launch their new CD Kerosene & Coal this weekend. This drummerless combo features three vocalist—including the single malt-soaked larynx of Gern F. and the husky drawl of Felicity Hamer—and a live show that probably has more to do with vintage Clash than the Carter Family.

“We play with bands from all over,” says Gern F., “and Montreal bands are definitely rougher, which I really like, while the alt-country scene in Toronto by comparison is definitely a lot more pristine. I think something is definitely about to break open from here—I don’t want to tell people to look for all of our records on the front racks in the next couple of months, but things have been growing so much in the last four years that it’s just a matter of time.”

Gone are the tales of Route 66 and the endless tips o’ the 10-gallon to trains and pick-up trucks, while local landmarks and distinctly indigenous lyrics take their place. In fact, Gern F. probably introduces the words “ice and snow” into a country song for the first time.

“Country music is a form of folk music and I think most people are drawn to it because of its honesty. Why the hell would I want to write a song about having a pick-up truck when I ride a bicycle? Writing about Montreal just happens, this city from the word go just instantly inspired me. We write about stuff that grabs us by the ribs and is based in reality, be it factory closings, shitty politics or bad weather—and Montreal has all of that.”

CD launch with Ox at la Sala Rossa
on Friday, April 20, 9:30 p.m.,
$10/$20 with CD