The emo math rockers from Montreal debuted with this single back in December 2024. Still, it has just landed in our submissions inbox, so for me, at least, it feels fresh. They have released one more single that I am sharing in this post as well. We have received an awe-inspiring press release. Apparently, this band is trying to “redefine emotional intricacy in modern math rock”. I couldn’t agree with that more, as the sound has been very intriguing and, in some ways, quite innovative. I have been torn about sharing the full press release, as it extensively describes the energy this song brings and conveys what makes it special. Still, I have decided to share it as I would not put it better.
“A powerful blend of technical prowess and raw vulnerability, “Kind” plunges into the nuanced and often haunting memories of parting with someone once cherished. With Alex Kofman’s voice leading the charge from his post on bass, “Kind” strikes the listener with a subtle force. Kofman’s vocals simmer with an urgency that captures the complexities of memory—each line steeped in introspection. Behind him, lead guitarists Jeff Lehberg and Sehmim Al weave a jagged, crystalline landscape that refracts delicate melodies through rhythmically complex phrases, shifting between tenderness and tension in a way that keeps listeners on edge. Andre Ouellette’s drums provide a sturdy but intricate backbone, as the absence of a traditional rhythm guitar only amplifies the daring spaces within the piece. “Kind” showcases the band’s capacity to draw beauty from starkness, balancing meticulously constructed rhythms and rich harmonic structures with a profound emotional core. The band shared, “We wanted to explore how memory feels in the body—especially the tension between sweetness and sorrow that’s wrapped up in every goodbye. ‘Kind’ isn’t just about remembering someone; it’s about wrestling with what it means to let them go.”
The band showcased their true craftsmanship and a unique approach to math rock, infused with a lot of emo influence, which is something I can easily get into without even thinking. I have been rereading the press release to fully grasp the essence of the song. I have also explored the other single, “The Box,” which takes a similar approach to the first song but leans even more towards the emo genre. I have been really captivated by their guitars and overall sound. It is definitely something that stands out, whether in the genre or in general, from the submissions we have been receiving.
I have always been fond of Canadian music, and this band is making its way onto my map of great bands from there. The Montreal scene has consistently produced some great acts, and Sum and Substance are definitely a band to watch. Just two songs, but already showing so much potential. I have been playing them on repeat and falling in love with them with every listen. Emotive, raw, energetic, stellar guitar riffs, vocals that will stick in your head. If you’re looking for fresh emo music, this is the perfect choice. You will become their fan on the first listen and will crave more. I am already anticipating the next music they will make.
Sum and Substance are very talented emo math rockers, and they are definitely staying on my radar for upcoming releases. I have been truly enjoying these two songs. I will definitely give them more listening time, as if listening to them ten times was not enough already.
Written by Filip Zemcik
