With his new single, “Hurt A Bird,” St. Catharines-based artist JoeLapinskidelivers a fierce and poignant anthem against intolerance. Rooted in New Wave Rock with a touch of punk spirit, the track channels Lapinski‘s anger toward the adult bullying of transgender and non-binary youth.
Co-produced with Dave Clark (Rheostatics, Gord Downie‘s Country of Miracles), the song’s tight, punchy arrangement emerged through a collaborative effort to refine Lapinski‘s initial, lengthier version. Inspired by late ’70s and early ’80s New Wave icons, “Hurt A Bird” features Elvis Costello-style synths and XTC-inspired basslines, creating a track that is both catchy and emotionally charged.
I wrote this song on a day when some so-called ‘adults’ were protesting against transgender and non-binary students being allowed to use their chosen pronouns and bathrooms. It made me furious—these kids already have a hard enough time navigating their identities. To have adults from their own community dehumanizing them is just cruel.
Co-producing this track with Dave Clark was a transformative experience. He pushed me to cut the fat and shape the song into a concise, powerful statement. The result is a sharp, no-nonsense New Wave rock song that hits hard and fast. – JoeLapinski
1. What did you enjoy most about the recording process of this new release?
I really enjoyed collaborating with the musicians who perform on “Hurt A Bird”. Starting with drummer and co-producer Dave Clark (Rheostatics, Gord Downie’s Country of Miracles), we knew the “new wave” punky pop sound was going to come mostly from the rhythm section. Dave has a knack for injecting infectious rhythms into my tunes. He also really helped guide the arrangement, encouraging me to “cut the fat” and keep it tight and to the point. Bass player Ian de Souza (Sisters Euclid) adds to the infectious feel with his bass playing. I know he was inspired by XTC bass player Colin Moulding for his performance, so things are very melodic and punchy. Next is the memorable synth performance by Chris Pruden (Zinnia). We asked Chris to give us something resembling early Elvis Costello and The Attractions…. And he delivered that, and more! His performance really glued the whole tune together. And finally, we have the amazing Laurel Minnes (Minuscule) on backing vocals. She’s all over this new album, and delivers powerful vocal punches on this song. She goes where my vocals can’t.
2. Share a nugget of advice that has resonated with you most over the years.
Always follow your gut! Whether that’s during the writing process, or arranging music with your band, or even down to recording, mixing and mastering your music. Follow your instinct, in the moment. Don’t let the moment pass without addressing what your subconscious mind is telling you. It is telling you something for a reason. Honour it by taking action.
3. Who would be your dream artist/band to co-headline a tour with?
The band Minuscule. Some of their members are in my band, and I play bass in their band once in a while. It would be a fantastic and fun tour to be on since we’re all pals and love making music together.
4. What sets your music apart from others in your genre?
My style of music tends to lean towards something familiar, yet unique. I like to take traditional genres and styles, and put a slightly progressive or experimental twist on it. For example, I write a lot of music inspired by Nick Drake, Neil Young, The Band, etc.. But to keep things interesting, I’ll add more progressive twists that you might hear in a Rush tune, but usually keeping it subliminal. It is as if Wilco and Dirty Projectors had a baby. But my end goal always has the listener bopping their head.
5. Tell us what your favourite song is at the moment and why.
“Invincibility” by Alabaster DePlume. I love the textures and melody on this tune. His voice sounds like his sax playing. The production is both lush and minimal, which makes for a dynamic listening experience.
I’m also digging the new Stereolab song “Aerial Troubles”. I’ve been a huge fan of theirs since the late 90’s, and it is great they have reformed and are putting out new music! This song gets me moving.
