andrew vs. the enabler

Andrew Johnston is a songwriter and guitar player from Montreal who writes and records under the moniker of Andrew vs. the Enabler. As Andrew vs. The Enabler, Andrew makes music with a strong artistic identity and a sound that is all its own-a little folky, a little indie, a little rock, but all of it presented with authenticity. Andrew’ s relaxed vocal style lends an intimacy and sincerity to the songs, which help to unify the eclectic nature of the material.Andrew’s eclectic sensibilities are no more readily apparent then on his recently completed album, Leader’s Factory. Leader’s Factory was produced in Montreal’s Auroratone Studios, and was brought to completion with the help of various friends: Richard White from the Besnard Lakes plays electric guitar on a number of tracks while ex High Dials bassist Rhisi Dhir takes up the sitar.If Leader’s Factory represents Andrew’s most broad ranging music statement then the recently completed Andrew Johnston vs. the Ideal Lover’s, is probably Andrew’s most coherent. The album consists of 10 alt. country and rock and roll tunes, and was recorded live at the Ideal Lover’s practice space/studio over various weekends in 2007. While Leader’s Factory features Andrew’s abilities in the studio, Andrew Johnston vs. the Ideal Lover’s showcases an artist coming into his own and a singer and performer: Andrew sang and played the guitar live off the floor, with no punch ins or edits. The material is well supported by the band, with stand out pedal steel and guitar playing by Joe Grass and Mike O’Brian.When Andrew takes to the stage he has been lucky to play with a number of fabulous local musicians: Andrew has shared bills with Freelove Fenner, the Ease Down, Amanda Mabro, JF Robitaille, the Jimmy Riggers, and the Broken Hearted amongst others.