Canadian rockers Lions in the Street are back with their new single “Moving Along,” set to drop on Friday, August 16, 2024. This release marks another chapter in the band’s tumultuous yet determined journey through the music industry.
Lions in the Street—comprised of brothers Chris (vocals and guitar) and Jeff Kinnon (drums), alongside guitarist Sean Casey and bassist Enzo Figliuzzi—have carved out their unique space in the rock landscape. Based between Canada and California, this quartet has shared the stage with a diverse array of acts, from garage rock legends like the Dirtbombs to arena-fillers such as Kings of Leon. They’ve made waves at SXSW and caught the attention of the Rolling Stones’ legendary manager, Andrew Loog Oldham. However, their commitment to artistic integrity often came at the cost of commercial success, leaving them on the fringes of the mainstream.
The band’s career began with a series of bold moves that defied industry norms. They signed, then walked away from, deals with TVT Records (home to Nine Inch Nails and Pitbull), Nickelback’s 604 Records, and even parted ways with manager Allen Kovac, who guided the careers of Motley Crue and Blondie. These decisions, while driven by principle, led to years of industry blacklisting. During this period, the members of Lions in the Street faced personal hardships—working as a garbageman, surviving cancer, enduring workplace injuries, and narrowly escaping deadly car accidents. But through it all, their passion for music never waned.
Despite the challenges, Lions in the Street continued to create and release music, albeit piecemeal. In 2013, they dropped an EP on the label of British legend Sandy Roberton, who played a pivotal role in the 60s British Blues rock movement. Now, the rise of streaming platforms has offered the band a new lease on life, enabling them to share previously unheard tracks that have been meticulously finished, remixed, and remastered.
Their upcoming album, Moving Along, embodies the raw energy and swagger that has defined their sound. The title track, mixed by Rick Parker (known for his work with Beck, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, and Scott Weiland), is a gritty, harmonica-laden anthem that Jambase.com described as “worthy of Mick and Keith at their sticky-fingered best.” Adding to its impact, “Moving Along” will also feature as the lead track in the upcoming Paramount film Cassino In Ischia, starring Prison Break’s Dominic Purcell.
Lions in the Street show no signs of slowing down. Alongside the release of Moving Along, they’re finalizing a live album and a record produced by multi-Grammy Award winner Dave Cobb, known for his work with Chris Stapleton and Brandi Carlile. For a band that has weathered the storms of the music industry, Lions in the Street are a testament to resilience and the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll.
