It’s been five years since Saskatchewan multi-instrumentalist and producer Kaelen Klypak released new music. While taking some time off from his solo project, he hit the road playing drums for the band Slow Down Molasses for two years. Performing in cities including the UK, Scotland, and Germany. Klypak, who goes by the artist name June Thrasher, is known for his ambient/instrumental EP Viper Creek, inspired by the Stranger Things soundtrack. It was this TV show that sparked my friendship with Klypak back in November. June Thrasher’s music was my refuge on long winter days.
“Cutlass Supreme” is June Thrasher’s first single off his Sophomore EP Prairie Thrash, dropping on June 2nd (Klypak’s birthday).
On the inspiration behind “Cutlass Supreme,” June Thrasher says, “it’s a love letter to my second car that I had in high school.” Klypak drove his friends to skateboarding spots or punk-rock shows.
“The soundtrack as we were driving was either Dance Mix ‘95 or something on the heavier side,” he said, referring to the beloved compilation CD released by MuchMusic. “I was trying to capture that in a musical form and tie it into the song.”
June Thrasher’s sonic vision and production process are unique, as “Cutlass Supreme” was composed using analogue gear. It was recorded all in one take, live off the floor. Starting with a riff evoking a specific mood or emotion. “I laid out this foundation of where I always wanted to write a pop rock song but with synthesizers, and this is my intent at that,” says June Thrasher.
Listening to this song, I feel a sense of freedom, as its many layers and textures paint a portrait of Prairie life. This sound is conveyed through the bright melodic synthesizer line. Another unique element is a lower synth mimicking the roar of a car engine. and booming kick drums representing the heavier feel.
I love that the song was produced using analogue gear, creating a sound that is dynamic, crisp, and clear. I can’t wait to blast this on my next road trip. I am also looking forward to Klypak’s EP Prairie Thrash dropping in June.
