Canadian garage punk trio The Discarded are gearing up for the release of their sixth full-length studio album, The Green Door, set to drop on November 25, 2024. The father-and-sons band, known for their raw, high-energy sound, recently unveiled the album’s lead single, “Testify!” – a track that captures the band’s gritty punk intensity with a fresh southern preacher vibe. Fans of Ramones, Rocket from the Crypt, and Motörhead will find plenty to love in The Green Door, a record that showcases The Discarded’s ever-evolving sound.
The Discarded, formed in 2016 in Orangeville, Ontario, is led by veteran rocker JP Wasson on guitar and vocals, with his sons Caden Jax Wasson on drums and Jared Dean Wasson on bass. The trio has built a solid reputation for blending punk rock roots with a youthful, rebellious energy, playing nearly 100 shows and sharing the stage with iconic acts like The Sonics and Teenage Head. Recently, they added Ben Keestra on guitar, further expanding their sound.
“Testify!” stands out for its infectious energy, featuring driving riffs and a chorus that demands listeners’ attention: “Brothers and sisters, I need you to testify!” The song originated during a jam session between JP and Caden, and evolved over time, particularly with Jared’s live performances injecting a fresh bassline into the mix. Guitarist Michael McKenzie, a key figure in the Canadian rock scene, adds intricate riffs to the track, while Carmen Toth’s background vocals bring an added depth.
The new album, recorded at Green Door Studios, was produced by John Critchley, known for his work with Elliott BROOD and Dan Mangan. Critchley’s production adds a polished but vibrant feel to the record. The Green Door merges the raw grit of garage rock with punk’s rebellious spirit, incorporating elements of classic rock and even some metal influence. Notably, Lee Rose of Ace of Wands contributes a heavy metal violin to the album, adding a unique twist.
The Discarded's The Green Door captures the raw energy of Ramones, the rebellious edge of Rocket from the Crypt, and the gritty swagger of Motörhead, creating a fierce blend of punk and garage rock with a classic rock twist. With its bold sound and striking cover art by illustrator Rachael Muir, The Green Door is poised to make a lasting impact on the punk and garage rock scenes.