Kanak Is On The ‘Outside’ Looking In
PHOTO: Kanak by Stephanie Kanach
In the video for their new single, “Outside,” there’s a map of New Jersey on the wall behind their stage. Kanak hits a hard-driving groove on the song, a tale of alienation, made more profound by its lyrical honesty. “I think a lot of people feel like they don’t fit in and that has always been true for me. I have never felt like I belong.” So says front-man singer-songwriter Tom Kanach. It’s the first single from their upcoming On The Outside EP, due March 22 via Pop Clique Music/The Orchard. “It’s so personal yet also universal. Does anyone ever truly feel like they belong? I love the snarl and anger of it. I’m singing through clenched teeth. Coming out of the pandemic and losing my father really made me realize how fleeting time is and lonely life can be.”
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For the video, Kanak pulled live footage from The Saint and Wonder Bar in their hometown Asbury Park, Crossroads in Garwood, Tierney’s in Montclair and Pino’s in Highland Park. Yeah, it’s a Jersey thing. The three-guitar attack on the EP was produced by Ed Stasium whose work with The Ramones, Talking Heads and Motorhead speaks for itself. The band had to fly out to San Diego to work with him. The proof of their vitality is in the grooves. Their combined experience is evident. Johnny Rao played guitar for David Johansen and Syl Sylvain. Guitarist Peter Wood was in Dramarama. Add bassist Joe Rowley and drummer Steve Brown and Kanak may not be on the outside looking in for long.