The Wait is Over. The Punters release new CD
The Downhomer

So, The Punters have come out with a new album, appropriately titled, will you wait. Well, we've waited long enough since their very successful second album, said she couldn't dance, which was re-released in 1998. In case you didn't know, The Punters are four traditional-folk-country-alternative-rockers from Newfoundland who've been making quite a splash on the East Coast music scene and in Europe.

Although a couple of musicians have come and gone, original members Larry Foley and Patrick Moran are joined by Chris Batstone and Rich Spurrell. These four guys released their latest compilation on March 28, 2000 and the new CD is apparently selling quickly in stores everywhere. The release will be followed by a seven-week tour across Canada and into the United States.

Larry, the band's lead singer, recently called for a chat from Ireland, where he was doing some promotion for the new album. Larry says, "The new album has given us a chance to explore some new skills as writers. We are breaking new ground and exploring new sounds."

Like their last, this record has some traditional tunes and a lot of Celtic influence, but this time they've added more pop sound. Its mix of sounds is intentional, explains Larry, "We are pushing the envelope for ourselves musically; we were feeling pigeon-holed. Even though we are still inspired by our roots, we don't want to beat people over the head with the traditional stuff."

The band's philosophy seems to be working, as copies of the CD at Music World in the Avalon Mall sold out the very first day. The album is getting great reviews outside of Newfoundland as well. Foley says, "In Ireland right now, people are really digging the new album."

The first two singles off the album, Rise With the Sun and Will You Wait have gotten a fantastic amount of radio play. The video for Rise With the Sun is already in regular rotation on CMT, and is expected to be aired on MuchMusic in the near future.

The Punters are a talented bunch of guys. If you haven't heard their latest effort, you should.