By Kate Tocke, Contributor 

 [Island Records; 2023]

Rating: 7/10

Key Tracks: “Blame Brett”, “Shower Beer”, “Edge of the Earth”

Toronto natives The Beaches have just gifted us with their sophomore release Blame My Ex. This new record is pretty self-explanatory. It is a collection of post-breakup tracks, but without the depressing tone such songs usually have. These tracks are powerful and boast hard, delicious rock chords. The vocals are grunge-inspired and the drums are excitingly rhythmic. The band does a good job of fitting into the indie rock category without becoming too pop-oriented. They have clear rock influences that are reflected in their unique style. 

The album starts off with a bang. “Blame Brett” was the second single that was originally released in May. Lead singer and bassist Jordan Miller calls out her not-so-forgettable ex in this post-breakup anthem. This is a fun and upbeat track that will definitely have you tapping your foot and getting in the groove. 

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They released three more singles before the full album release. “Everything is Boring” was the first single released in April. This track has lyrics that are not the most joyful, but this is hidden by the feel-good, flowy beat that gets interrupted by a killer drum beat in the chorus. The third single was “Me & Me”, a rather groovy self-love track. This song embraces the single life through a catchy chorus and lively verses. The last single that was released was “What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Paranoid.” The heavy guitar and rocking vocals show that this song has a strong rock influence. 

The rest of the album does a great job of rounding itself out. There are more mellow tracks, such as “My Body ft Your Lips” and “If A Tree Falls”, that balance the album out and offer something for everyone. The album comes full circle as it closes out with “Cigarette”, a song about a possible new lover that shows the healing discussed in the beginning. It is a catchy tune with some awesome instrumentals. 

Blame My Ex is an all-around good album that takes the listener on a journey of heartbreak. We are always in need of girl rock groups and The Beaches fill that role perfectly. This album is a win in the girl world and this band has so much more to offer. Check out this band, they are what’s missing in your music library. 

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