photos by Jim Bennett
Canadian new-wavers You Say Party! We Say Die! are back in the U.S. after a transforming three-year hiatus. Since bassist Stephen O’Shea was banned from the states until 2011 for improper identification at the border over three years ago, the five-piece found themselves stretched thin from overtouring and lack of inspiration. After touring Japan and China in 2008, You Say Party! discovered all they need is love and each other, and set out to channel their freeing revelation into a new and third album, XXXX (2009) (hit single “Laura Palmer’s Prom” featured on KEXP’s Song of the Day). The group has since gotten back in the game, playing at the 2010 Olympics, embarking on an extensive North American tour (after pulling some strings) and even snagging the SXSW stage. It’s about time America gets its Brat Pack-worthy dance-punk music back.
