Over the last 19 years, Hamilton’s Dirty Nil have earned a reputation as one of Canada’s most incendiary rock bands. Now presenting as a duo—vocalist/guitarist Luke Bentham and drummer Kyle Fisher—they sound more dynamic than ever on their fifth album, The Lash. Trading some of their rock metal theatrics for a more nuanced sound, the band shifts into a tender gear without losing their punch. Make no mistake though, this is still music meant to be cranked to max volume.

The album’s most memorable moments come when they slow down like never before. “Spider Dream” offers unexpected space, while “This Is Me Warning Ya” spotlights Bentham’s voice alongside subtle violin and a delicate guitar melody. “That Don’t Mean It Won’t Sting” is another among their most stripped-down and affecting tracks.

Yet the Dirty Nil still burn bright. Their signature mega-choruses and rebellious streak remain intact—just try not yelling along to “Do You Want Me.” On the reflective “Rock and Roll Band,” Bentham sneers, “Someone else is getting rich, not you,” like a rock and roll lifer who’s earned the right to say it.

The Lash proves the Dirty Nil can evolve without compromise—still loud, still vital, and still making us feel spiritually rich.

Leslie Ken Chu