Nightwood

Named after Djuna Barnes’ 1930s modernist novel, Nightwood are a rock trio born and raised in Montreal, with a sound that defies simple categorization (Indie Rock? Stoner Pop? Torch Grunge?). Their lyrical songs feature arresting vocal harmonies and intertwined guitar riffs care of the two front women (best friends Amber Goodwyn and Erin Ross) and are grounded by the inimitable drumming of Jeremy MacCuish (Cotton Mouth, Parlovr). Frequently writing songs in thematic cycles, the band’s somewhat introspective songwriting process is blown to bits by their live act: a take-no-prisoners sweaty rock show complete with hollering, laughter and tossed hair. More here!



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Carta Marina album review from The Mad Ones:



"Call back harmonies, tight drumming, and clear cut guitar riffs frame the album, giving it a dark, hypnotic tone. [.] If you dig bands like Black Mountain, Pink Mountaintops, or the darker early stuff from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, then I can guarantee that you'll be a fan of Nightwood's music. If you listen to the album through your headphones, you're bound to be entranced; drawn in to the brooding intensity; waiting for the violence of the imminent storm from the lighthouse lookout of your mind."



Carta Marina album review from Quick Before it Melts:



"You’d do yourself a great injustice be just listening to one or two tracks before making up your mind about Nightwood, because just when you think you have them figured out, the next song comes on and it’s not what you expected to hear. The influences may be of a DIY punk stripe, but these influences cross and intersect like lines in a madras shirt rather than a woolly checkered plaid."



Carta Marina album review from The Singing Lamb:



"Carta Marina flows freely and swiftly allows the listener to adopt each and every song. [.] After the very first listen you’ll feel the irresistible urge to sing along and shake your hips to the catchy guitar riffs and steady drums. [.] The vocals set the mood, similar to what Patti Smith did with Horses and her powerful lyrics. It grabs your guts in the same torturing way and twists something inside your heart."



Carta Marina album review from EMORAGEI (4.5/5):



"Depuis sa sortie le 1er octobre dernier, l’album Carta Marina m’a ensorcelé à un point tel que j’ai dû l’écarter de ma vie, l’enfermer dans un coffre-fort à double tour et jeter les clés par la fenêtre. Tout cela pour demeurer en bonne santé physique et mentale. Je me doute qu’il n’est pas nécessaire de vous dire que je n’ai rien fait de tout cela. Je l’ai simplement écouté, savouré jusqu’à la dernière goutte, et aujourd’hui il me fait plaisir de vous partager mes impressions."



Carta Marina album review from In Your Speakers:



"Montreal based Nightwood’s full length debut album, Carta Marina, is a fascinating experience. Nightwood have focused their considerable talent on creating a true album. In an age when records are rapidly becoming either a loose amalgamation of songs or hyper-intensive concept albums, it seems the idea of musical albums as they once existed is becoming obsolete. Amber Goodwyn, Erin Ross and Jeremy MacCuish have shown us otherwise […] Carta Marina is yet another reminder of all that Montreal’s independent music scene has to offer. It is an album made by artists who clearly have both a desire and ability to one day be masters of their craft. It shows remarkable maturity to craft an album which flows together so well and demands such attention from the listener. Nightwood have established themselves as a band worth watching."



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Live show review by The Lonely Vagabond:



"Brandishing a spiky guitar-led sound that careens between post-punk and indie-rock, this Montreal trio’s secret power lies in keeping it simple while maintaining an edgy DIY vision. Controlling the energy with fuzz-toned riffs, pop leanings, and brooding heartfelt vocals stylistically akin to a Patti Smith or PJ Harvey, Nightwood is both compelling and strangely catchy at the same time."



Live show review by Meet You At The Show:



"A live performance to truly capture the magic and charm of the music and the band themselves [.] this band scored big points and made a great first impression, as they brought an intense energy to the stage."



Live show review by The Singing Lamb:



"The whole vibe of the LP was multiplied live, so mix that with funny banter and stage presence and you got a pretty perfect show. They use the simple two guitars/drums combination wisely and effectively. It’s never redundant and Nightwood are a great novelty in the Montréal music scene."



Live show review by MYATS:



"I quickly discovered that Amber’s petite figure is not to be underestimated – her voice is pretty but also quite powerful. Nightwood’s drummer, Jeremy MacCuish, was amazing to watch as his hands masterfully whizzed through the air and played effortlessly. This is one band you definitely want to see live."



Live show review by Guttersnipe:



"in 35 minutes
and
8 songs
Nightwood
destroyed me."