Robin Webb discovers a delightful power pop record from the Toronto band
Persona Non Grata
Released: 17.01.20
Kiwi Jr. seem to live dual lives, one a mundane existence that serves only to earn a buck to support their alter ego as a keenly-edged indie pop band full of youthful observations, Buzzcock-ian songs of love, football, ambition and the everyday humdrum required while living a modern life.
They’ve spent two years writing this album, by all accounts in their spare time in between day jobs and studio down time, which the thematic subject matter reflects particularly in the jaunty track Salary Man. There’s a definite Kinks storytelling sensitivity particularly felt in the songs Wicked Witches and Swimming Pool, which is about the demise of Brian Jones. Overall it’s a delightful power pop debut by this Toronto band.
