New EP released by Customer Service will have you headbanging
Owen Harris and Max Hayden both found themselves working at the customer service desk of Canadian Tire on Quinpool Road in Halifax. Their days were spent daydreaming about creating music, a shared ambition that stemmed from their close bond. Growing up in the vicinity of Halifax’s south and west ends, the two friends, who were also neighbors, developed a passion for emo and punk music during their teenage years. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for their musical journey when their schools closed down, prompting them to engage in musical jam sessions and refining their skills. Their musical journey kickstarted at house parties, later leading them to share the stage with renowned acts like Hollerado.
Customer Service’s debut EP, “Live More Forever,” marked their breakthrough in the music scene, catapulting them to fame in Halifax and earning them recognition in publications like Exclaim!. The EP not only showcased the band’s potential but also drew the attention of Royal Mountain Records in Toronto, resulting in the signing of a record deal.
Now, a year after the success of “Live More Forever,” Customer Service is back with a new EP titled “to you, after 2000 years.” The three-track EP is set to premiere on February 14, with a release event scheduled for March 7 at the Seahorse Tavern. Whether you’re already a fan of the band or discovering their music for the first time, this new release is bound to capture your attention and earn a spot on your playlist.
The sophomore EP continues the narrative established in “Live More Forever,” with themes of transition, nostalgia, and growth prevalent throughout the tracks. Their breakout single, “Grad Day,” delves into the complexities of high school graduation and bidding farewell to an era of one’s life. Similarly, the new EP explores the changing seasons, heartbreak, and the bittersweet sentiment of evolving relationships and parting ways. The band’s guitarist, Owen Harris, acknowledges the power of emotional connections and transitions as the driving force behind their songwriting process.
Max Hayden, the band’s vocalist, reflects on the transient nature of relationships, especially during a phase of life where people come together and part ways. He draws parallels between their experiences and the constant flux of friendships and connections that shape their lives, resonating with listeners on a personal level.
As Customer Service embarks on regional tours, including performances in the Maritimes, Quebec, and Ontario, they are witnessing firsthand the impact of their music on audiences across Canada. The band’s eagerness to explore new territories and connect with fellow musicians is a testament to their passion for live performances and interacting with fans on the road. The upcoming release party at the Seahorse Tavern promises an electrifying night of music, featuring a lineup of talented artists.
“to you, after 2000 years” will be available in both vinyl and digital formats, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the band’s latest musical offerings. With their distinctive sound and introspective lyrics, Customer Service continues to captivate audiences and establish themselves as a prominent presence in Halifax’s emo and punk scenes. Join the band on their musical journey as they share their stories, emotions, and experiences through the universal language of music.