Mandatory Love, by The Autumn Stones

Toronto indie rock/dream-pop outfit The Autumn Stones today release new single Mandatory Love. A fast paced, motoric rush that showcases a newfound sense of urgency for the band, Mandatory Love takes lyrical inspiration in the roots of authoritarian ideology. On point for the times in which we find ourselves, the song is now available at all major streaming services and official audio mood-video at YouTube.

Produced by The Autumn Stones alongside Andy Magoffin at The House of Miracles (The Hidden Cameras, Great Lake Swimmers, The Constantines), Mandatory Love precedes the June 22 release of Emperor Twilight, the band’s third LP. Principal songwriter Ciaran Megahey describes the album as simultaneously a catalogue of humanity’s shortcomings but also a resistance to cynicism. “I’m a little pre-occupied with exploring human nature’s dark side,” he offers in explanation of the juxtaposition. “I guess I have always thought of that as the artist’s role in culture.”

Emperor Twilight sees vocalist/guitarist Megahey share songwriting duties for the first time, with new guitarist Dan Dervaitis, on five of the album’s eight tracks. The sonic palette has expanded to include keys, Hammond organ and Wurlitzer, supporting an ever-increasing focus on melody in composition. The band’s rhythm section is refreshed by the addition of Raymond Cara on drums and Marcus Tamm on bass. Saxophone twinkles in the margins courtesy of Gary Butler.
The Autumn Stones released their first LP, Companions of the Flame, in 2011 and began forging a reputation on the Toronto club scene. Sophomore effort Escapists earned critical acclaim from notable outlets including Popmatters and The Quietus, drawing favourable comparisons to touchstones The Smiths and Roxy Music. Toronto’s storied alternative weekly paper, NOW, selected the band to cover Feist in their popular 50:50 series. Having shared the stage with acts like The Cribs, Golden Suits, In-Flight Safety and The DMA’s, the band’s expression of vision is galvanized in the live setting. The Autumn Stones will launch Emperor Twilight.

Links:
https://www.songkick.com/artists/4159566-autumn-stones
https://theautumnstones.bandcamp.com
https://soundcloud.com/theautumnstones
http://www.theautumnstones.com