Metric: Charting the Evolution of Canadian Indie Rock
An exploration of the acclaimed Canadian band's journey through genres, critical milestones, and enduring influence.
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Introduction
Canadian Indie Rock Ensemble
Metric, a prominent Canadian indie rock band, was established in Toronto, Ontario, in 1998. The core of the band comprises Emily Haines, who handles lead vocals, synthesizers, guitar, and various other instruments, and James Shaw, the lead guitarist, synthesizer player, and backing vocalist. The current lineup is rounded out by Joshua Winstead on bass and synthesizers, and drummer Joules Scott-Key.
Genre Synthesis
The band's musical identity is characterized by a dynamic fusion of genres, including indie rock, new wave, post-punk revival, synth-pop, and alternative rock. Their sound is notably defined by prominent synthesizer arrangements, evolving from their early downtempo electronic roots to more layered and expansive sonic landscapes across their discography.
Critical Acclaim
Metric has garnered significant critical recognition throughout their career, evidenced by multiple Juno Award wins and nominations, including Group of the Year and Alternative Album of the Year. They have also been recognized by the Polaris Music Prize and featured in prestigious publications like Rolling Stone, solidifying their status as influential artists in contemporary music.
Historical Trajectory
Genesis and Early Years (1998-2002)
Metric's origins trace back to 1998 in Toronto, where Emily Haines and James Shaw, initially performing as a duo named "Mainstream," began crafting songs with a downtempo, electronic feel. After releasing an EP, they adopted the name Metric. The period between 2000 and 2002 saw the band solidify its lineup, recruit drummer Joules Scott-Key, and later bassist Joshua Winstead, while working on their debut album, Grow Up and Blow Away, which faced significant delays before its eventual release.
Ascendancy and Recognition (2003-2011)
The release of Old World Underground, Where Are You Now? in 2003 marked a significant step, earning critical praise and Canadian gold certification. Subsequent albums like Live It Out (2005) and Fantasies (2009) garnered nominations for the Polaris Music Prize and multiple Juno Awards, including Group of the Year. This era cemented their reputation for energetic live performances and a distinctive blend of synth-driven rock.
Continued Innovation and Expansion (2012-Present)
Metric continued to evolve with albums such as Synthetica (2012), Pagans in Vegas (2015), Art of Doubt (2018), Formentera (2022), and Formentera II (2023). These releases showcased their willingness to experiment with electronic textures and diverse production styles, while maintaining their core artistic integrity. Their influence was further recognized in 2023 when Rolling Stone ranked them among the 50 Greatest Canadian Artists of All Time.
Discography Overview
Studio Albums
Metric's studio album output demonstrates a consistent evolution in their sound and thematic exploration:
- Old World Underground, Where Are You Now? (2003)
- Live It Out (2005)
- Grow Up and Blow Away (2007)
- Fantasies (2009)
- Synthetica (2012)
- Pagans in Vegas (2015)
- Art of Doubt (2018)
- Formentera (2022)
- Formentera II (2023)
Soundtracks and Contributions
Metric's music has been featured prominently in various media, including films like Clean (2004) and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010), and soundtracks such as The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010). Their songs have also appeared in numerous television series and video games, underscoring their broad cultural resonance.
Awards and Accolades
Juno Awards and Polaris Prize
Metric has received substantial recognition from Canadian music institutions. They have won multiple Juno Awards, including Group of the Year, Alternative Album of the Year for Fantasies and Synthetica, and Producer of the Year for James Shaw. Their albums have also been shortlisted for the prestigious Polaris Music Prize, highlighting their consistent critical acclaim.
Industry Recognition
Beyond major awards, Metric has been recognized through CASBY Awards and featured in prominent music publications. Their inclusion in Rolling Stone's "50 Greatest Canadian Artists of All Time" list further attests to their lasting impact and significance within the Canadian and international music scenes.
Musical Identity
Sonic Evolution
Metric's musical style is a testament to their artistic growth. Beginning with the electronic and downtempo influences of their early EPs, their sound progressively incorporated elements of new wave, hard rock, and anthemic indie rock. Albums like Fantasies and Synthetica showcased a more polished, synth-driven approach, while later works such as Art of Doubt and Formentera have explored a richer fusion of electronic textures with guitar-centric rock, often incorporating gothic and new wave undertones.
Lyrical Themes
Lyrically, Metric often engages with themes of social commentary, political awareness, and personal introspection. Songs frequently address anti-war sentiments, societal critiques, and explorations of identity and resilience, delivered through Emily Haines' distinctive vocal style and introspective lyricism.
Media Integration
Film and Television
Metric's music has been a recurring feature in popular culture, contributing to the soundtracks of films such as Clean (2004), where they performed "Dead Disco," and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010), featuring their song "Black Sheep." Their tracks have also been licensed for numerous television series, including Grey's Anatomy, The Vampire Diaries, and CSI: Miami, demonstrating their broad appeal across visual media.
Video Games and Advertising
The band's energetic and distinctive sound has also found a place in the gaming world, with songs appearing in titles like Rock Band 3, FIFA 10, and FIFA 13. Furthermore, their music has been utilized in advertising campaigns, such as the Polaroid i-Zone Fortune Film commercial featuring "Grow Up and Blow Away," and promotional spots for the Toronto Blue Jays.
Collaborations & Side Projects
Emily Haines & The Soft Skeleton
Emily Haines has pursued solo endeavors under the moniker Emily Haines & The Soft Skeleton. Her debut solo album, Knives Don't Have Your Back (2006), and subsequent EP What Is Free to a Good Home? (2007) explored a more intimate, piano-driven sound. She later released Choir of the Mind in 2017, further showcasing her individual artistic expression.
Other Collaborations
Both Haines and Shaw have been active contributors to the broader music community, notably with the collective Broken Social Scene, where Haines lent her vocals to several key tracks. Shaw also released a solo album, Life on the Clock, in 1997, featuring Haines. Drummer Joules Scott-Key and bassist Joshua Winstead have also engaged in side projects, such as the band Bang Lime.
Global Reach Through Touring
Extensive World Tours
Metric is renowned for its rigorous touring schedule, having performed extensively across North America, Europe, South America, Australia, Asia, and beyond. Their live shows are characterized by high energy and a dynamic stage presence, often featuring intricate synthesizer work and powerful vocal performances.
Festival Appearances
The band has been a consistent presence at major international music festivals, including Coachella, Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, Osheaga, and Austin City Limits. These appearances have solidified their reputation as compelling live performers capable of captivating large audiences.
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References
References
- "Metric Fantasies". Slant Magazine, by Casey Boland, April 13, 2009
- "Album review: Metric, 'Synthetica'". Chicago Tribune, Jessica Galliart, June 7, 2012.
- "LIVE REVIEW: Metric @ Hammerstein Ballroom". AudioFemme, By Suzannah Weiss| March 15th, 2016
- "The National Top 50 For the Week Ending: Tuesday, December 22, 2015". !earshot.
- "Metric Art of Doubt". Exclaim!, By Anna Alger, Sep 18, 2018
- "Metric Art of Doubt". Pitchfork, Katherine St. Asaph, September 27, 2018
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Disclaimer
Important Considerations
This content has been generated by an AI model, drawing upon publicly available information from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended for informational and educational purposes only.
This is not professional music industry advice. The information provided should not substitute consultation with music professionals, industry experts, or official documentation. Always verify critical details through primary sources.
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