New Music: The Galpines ‘Truck’

The Galpines album, Truck, will appeal to two types of people: those who appreciate irony and those who think that irregardless is a real word. If you’re reading this I hope you’re the former, otherwise you’re about to get right pissed at me.

As I write this I am literally in the car on the way to Sussex to do a shady Walmart parking lot deal. I couldn’t have asked for a better soundtrack for this occasion.

This album celebrates the seedy underbelly of New Brunswick culture. Whether you like it or not, you’ll find yourself singing along in no time. There isn’t much to the music itself—it’s simple and to the point—but what they lack in musical variety they make up for with hilarious lyrical witticism and pretty accurate social commentary. Basically it’s punk masquerading as country music.

These five Moncton-based ladies have got their musical identity sorted. With the classic combo of mandolin and banjo to complement their rockabilly guitar section, you won’t even notice their lack of percussion. Or maybe you will, but you’ll quickly be distracted by their lyrical genius as you find yourself inadvertently singing along to the chorus of Truck.

If you’re still looking for a reason to listen, there is plenty of ear-tickling to be had with their Good Lovelies-esque harmonies. Only, they are crooning absurdities to the likes of “My head literally exploded!” and “I’m balls deep in my broad and we’re underneath the stars”.

Their piece-de-resistance is the final track, Doggy Dog, which is chock full of cleverly misused popular idioms. Grammar nerds and social critics alike will chuckle as they recall actual interactions with those who misuse the word literally. It’s the musical equivalent of a Rickyism YouTube montage.

There isn’t a whole lot to it, but they’ve certainly accomplished what they’ve set out to do. They ironically bring the realities of binge drinking and shady neighbourhoods to life without being overly condescending…I think. That being said, be sure that you listen for the hidden track. Don’t make me say atodaso.

For more information check out The Galpines’ Facebook page.