In an era where live shows have become overly curated, there is something refreshing about the imperfected moments that Toronto-based jam band Shapes lean into during their performances. Intentionally blurring the line between composition and improvisation, Shapes’ newly unveiled debut record Planet Android highlights that unique balance. In addition, the band’s “Village Sessions (Daytime)” performance video creates an immersive, unfiltered, and ever-changing perspective into the band’s world.
Drawing from the DNA of jam band culture, Shapes takes it a step further by pushing their music into cinematic territory. Despite the fixed structure that comes with a polished studio record, their live renditions move with progression, allowing each song to evolve in real-time, bringing to life their music beyond what was recorded in a studio.
Planet Android unfolds into a dystopian narrative, exploring the ongoing reliance that humans now have on technology and the growing distance from nature. “Planet Android is both a warning and a statement on society’s digital dependence and the dangers of losing touch with nature,” the band explains. “The story depicts an alternate universe that acts as a metaphor to examine the dangerous path we face in our own reality.” With the opening single “Nature Girl” signaling the feeling of isolation through atmospheric guitars, the raw emotions are expanded through a live setting in the “Village Sessions (Daytime)”, allowing the song to breathe fresh air beyond its studio form.
As the 8-track record progresses, “The Baron’s Memoirs” leans into a slightly darker territory, introducing the story’s antagonist with a playful edge. At the same time, the title track “Planet Android” builds out the band’s dystopian universe through its funk-driven grooves and layered wind instrumentation. Reverting back to their moody, ethereal moments, “Rebel Merchant” and “The Last Oasis” highlight the band’s range and explosive instrumental jam sections. “Future Boy” adds brighter elements, adding a new dimension to their sound palette, with “The Showdown” building a cinematic finale, officially closing the album.
Filmed in a sunlight-filled space over the course of an afternoon, “Village Sessions (Daytime)” reveals Shapes at their rawest form. Featuring 2 previously released songs and 1 from Planet Android, the band’s live performance reflects the foundational roots of what makes a jam band. The focus lands entirely on the musicianship itself, where the grooves are tighter, the transitions are spontaneous, and the band’s musical influences collide, stripping away any theatrics and letting the music speak for itself. Led by Bryan Silverberg on guitar and Dave Hollingshead on keyboard, the bassist and drummer respond fluidly with cohesion, letting the groove of each note evolve as it happens, paving the way for all four musicians to play fully in sync. With subtle traces of psychedelic rock, jazz, blues, and funk fusing together, Shapes channels their inspirations to create a distinct sound of their own, reminding listeners that music isn’t just about structure or having a concept; it’s about the entire experience of feeling the music.
Following the release of their debut album, the live session acts as an extension and reimagining of Shapes’ journey as musicians. Planet Android builds the world, while “Village Sessions (Daytime)” invites you to step into it. Planet Android is now available to download and stream on all major music platforms, while “Village Sessions (Daytime)” is available to view on the band’s YouTube channel. To stay up to date on all of the band’s newest releases and upcoming shows, be sure to follow Shapes on Instagram, TikTok, and visit their website.
