As twilight casts its enchanting veil upon the city, and the evening mood takes hold, a mysterious artist emerges from the depths of Montreal, Canada. Groupe B, a darkwave disco synth punk project, emanates a distinctive fusion of genres that intertwines the realms of synth punk, disco, post punk, and new wave. Their audacious sonic tapestry, adorned with reverb-laden guitar work echoing through a JCM 800, and haunting, forlorn vocals reminiscent of the early days of Killing Joke, is poised to captivate and enthrall listeners around the world.
As the curtain is drawn back, revealing Groupe B’s latest opus, a new song emerges from the depths of their creative wellspring. Tonight, we are honored to premiere his new single “Manhunt “!
The enigmatic mastermind behind Groupe B is none other than Stephen Baird, known by his artistic alter ego, Schevy. After dedicating his creative energy to various musical endeavors, Schevy recognized the yearning within his soul to delve deeper into his own artistic vision. With an insatiable desire to craft an experience that transcends mere sound, he set forth to cultivate a multi-faceted project that seamlessly merged auditory and visual aesthetics, giving rise to the character of Vince La Schev and the enigmatic world of Groupe B.
Baird’s journey toward Groupe B was paved by his instrumental contributions to renowned musical outfits such as Orchids, the Shoegaze sensation, and Double Date with Death, a Psych Pop marvel. Through tireless exploration and experimentation, he discovered his true calling as a synthesizer maestro and an alchemist of guitar prowess. Guided by his own muse, Baird embarked on a voyage into the uncharted realms of sonic expression, laying the foundation for the mesmerizing soundscape that would soon bewitch audiences far and wide.
The enigmatic allure of Groupe B has graced illustrious stages across Montreal and beyond, leaving a trail of spellbound witnesses in their wake.
From the intimate confines of L’Esco, where Private Lives and Laughing mingled with ethereal melodies on April 9th, 2022, to the cosmic collision of VR SEX and Young Blades on April 24th, Groupe B has carved its niche as a coveted live act. They went on to illuminate Bar Le Ritz on June 30th, 2022, alongside the likes of Public Memory and Automelodi, infusing the venue with a transcendental energy that resonated deep within the souls of the attendees. Groupe B’s magnetic presence even transcended the realm of music, enchanting visitors at the Art Gallery Show hosted by Gallery Parfois on August 11th, 2022. And most recently, on March 29th, 2023, they graced Bar Le Ritz once again, sharing the stage with the enigmatic Warmduscher and the captivating Boar God, forging an unforgettable experience etched into the annals of the Montreal music scene.
Critics and music aficionados alike have been enraptured by Groupe B’s evocative compositions. As their single “Scorpion” emerged from the shadows, it became apparent that this rising artist harnessed the echoes of Killing Joke and Drab Majesty, blending them seamlessly with meticulous production. The accompanying music video, an homage to ’80s crime and slasher films, further propelled Groupe B into the limelight, solidifying their status as a burgeoning force to be reckoned with. It was no surprise that they were chosen to open for the illustrious Warmduscher, the London post punks, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating the abundant treasures Groupe B has yet to unveil.
Immersing oneself in the musical world of Groupe B is akin to traversing a phantasmagoric landscape, where pre-recorded synth and drum machine tracks intertwine like spectral threads, evoking the ethereal essence of Italian Giallo horror movie soundtracks. These hauntingly funky disco beats entwine with sinuous and sinister synth melodies, while interludes of punk-infused guitar riffs reverberate with the intensity of a tempest. Groupe B’s sonic range defies categorization, traversing from epic, romantic ballads that stir the deepest chambers of the heart to electrifying, “guitar hero” style tracks that ignite a primal fire within. Electro-punk anthems surge forth, commanding attention and leaving no soul untouched. This polymorphic mastery and the ability to hold audiences spellbound is a testament to Groupe B‘s creative mind.
In the dimly lit sonic scenery crafted by Groupe B, synthesizers rise and swell, merging with chugging rock guitars, while vocals, reminiscent of the iconic style of Depeche Mode during their New Wave heyday, cascade through the air, consuming the auditory senses. The atmospheric lead guitar lines, delicately woven on a hot pink guitar, weave a captivating tapestry, while the meticulous production envelops listeners in a sonic embrace that is both tight as hell and emotionally resonant. Groupe B’s sonic alchemy transports audiences to a realm where darkness and light dance together, creating a potent fusion of melancholy and euphoria.
For those who seek musical kinship and find solace in the sonic expressions of Drab Majesty, the visionary prowess of St. Vincent, the enigmatic allure of Viagra Boys, the seductive grooves of Cobra Man, the introspective echoes of Dirty Beaches, and the raw energy of Warmduscher, Groupe B will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to their playlists. These influences, skillfully distilled and channeled through Groupe B’s singular artistic vision, create a soundscape that echoes sounds of the past, but also defies conventions.
