Friday, March 25th at 9:00 p.m. Montreal's own Montoire will be launching their album, Laura , at Il Motore (170 Jean Talon West).

Ali (vocals), Sam (bass/vocals), Olivier (guitar), Pier-Yves (keyboard) and Maxime (drums) form Montoire, a band that is self-described as 90's pop, citing influences such as The Jesus and Mary Chain and Spacemen 3.

Though Montoire was created a few years ago, founding members Ali and Sam have been playing music since they were 13-years-old. The remaining members joined one by one, and once fully assembled, Montoire gained a definite sound and direction.

According to their press release, "Montoire isn't just a musical project, but it is also a platform used to explore the conventions and cliches of rock and roll in relation to the visual and performing arts."

Verily, Montoire's song "Elephant Files," off Laura, can be found accompanying Montreal visual artist Julien Vallee's "DanseDance". This video, a whimsical bricolage of sorts, is a real treat to watch.

Montoire released an EP titled Rock 'N Roll Rhetoric in 2009. Laura , a 12-song offering, is the band's first album to date. The entire album is available for download via their website.

I was kindly afforded the opportunity to listen to it before its release and did so, headphones securely in place, during the commute into work last week. I was well-pleased with what I found therein. Laura is an eclectic blend of edgier, grunge vibes and cheerful, pop flourishes.

Montoire harmoniously melds English and French lyrics, sometimes within the same song. With local acts such as Rufus Wainwright and Arcade Fire also infusing their music with bilingualism, this served as another reminder of what a singular joy it is to live in this fine, cultured city of ours.

The album is introduced with "Soldier's Joy," whose immediate, upbeat instrumentals are later contrasted with lyrics revealing both hope and frustration. This sets the tone of mystery and multitude that colours the album as a whole.

According to their press release, "Montoire's music explores themes of abandonment, right and wrong, and disillusionment."

"Elephant Files," the tenth song, is a catchy, stand-out piece. It paces along nicely, which made it the perfect companion as I watched the city whirl by the window of my a.m. bus ride.

This band is one to watch, and with that said, it is well worth your time to stop by Il Motore this Friday. Joining the festivities will be Pif Paf Hangover.

More information can be found at the group's Myspace.

They may be contacted at: montoiremusic@gmail.com.

Image is of Laura cover art by Pier Yves