Toronto’s Streets to Ourselves have been steadily gaining momentum, and with the release of their new single “Free”, they’re ready to make their mark. Led by vocalist and guitarist Daniel Peachy, the band’s energetic pop-punk sound is about to hit even harder with the release of their sophomore album The Truth Between Us on October 25th.
Produced by Sam Guaiana (Silverstein, Bearings, Super American) and mastered by Mike Kalajian (All Time Low, Neck Deep), “Free” blends the raw, catchy elements of early 2000s pop-punk with a more modern, polished edge.
Peachy joined us today to share his Top 10 Pop-Punk Releases of 2024.
“Free” stands out for the heavy subject matter that underpins it. Peachy explains that the song was inspired by the Freedom Convoy occupation in Canada and the January 6th events in the U.S. His concern about the rise of anti-intellectualism and far-right extremism takes center stage in the lyrics, adding an unexpected depth to the upbeat track.
Peachy notes, “I know the 17-year-old punk rock kid I used to be would punch me right in the face if all of this was happening and I wasn’t writing about it.”
Peachy, who originally started Streets to Ourselves as a solo project, has now built a full band, bringing in bassist Sean Tardo, drummer Jesse Formosa, and guitarist Josh Jeffery. Together, they’ve captured the spirit of early pop-punk while pushing the genre forward.
But it’s not just Streets to Ourselves that Peachy has been tuned into. As a diehard fan of the genre, he shared his Top 10 Pop-Punk Releases of 2024:
10. The Mendozaz – Loafers
I’m starting off this list repping my local scene with this pick. Toronto’s The Mendozaz are a great band with great songs who absolutely deserve a bigger spotlight. This album rocks!
9. Karen Dio – My World
This EP comes out in a few weeks, but Karen Dio has already made a huge splash with the singles that have been released so far, especially with Sick Ride. Super rad song with an awesome music video. Marry me, Karen.
8. Green Day – Saviors
It’s unreal that a band that’s been around since 1987 could put out an album this good this far into their career. The song writing still sounds fresh, and the band still has great energy.
7. Between You & Me – SH!T YEAH
Sam Guaiana produced my band’s new record, and he’s been working with Between You & Me for years. I can hear his touch all over this EP. These Aussies write amazingly catchy songs, and this new release is further proof of that.
6. Super American – Gangster Of Love
I love the song writing on Gangster Of Love, and I think it’s a great progression for the band after SUP. Sam Guaiana produced this one too, and he killed it as always. Stoked to hear what Super American does next.
5. Four Year Strong – analysis paralysis
This album is loads of fun, and I absolutely love the guitar tones. The heavier parts slap. This is definitely my favourite Four Year Strong album. Maybe it’s me.
4. Real Friends – Blue Hour
Blue Hour comes out just a few days after I’ve submitted this list, but based on the songs that have already been released I know I’m going to love this record. I think this will be their best release thus far.
3. The Story So Far – I Want To Disappear
This is The Story So Far’s first record in six years, and I think it absolutely lives up to the anticipation that was building for new music from them. They prove that they’ve still got it, and damn I love Parker’s voice on this album.
2. Sum 41 – Heaven :x: Hell
I think Heaven :x: Hell is their best album since Chuck. If this really is their final record, it’s one hell of a high note to go out on. Heaven :x: Hell has some of Deryck’s best songs, and some of Dave’s best solos.
1. Neck Deep – Neck Deep
This is a safe album, especially coming after All Distortions Are Intentional. But you know what? I fucking love it. Banger after banger after banger. Generic Pop-Punk FTW. And guess what? Sam Guaiana mixed this record, and Mike Kalajian mastered it. Guess which two guys mixed and mastered my band’s new album? I must be living in a dream.
