Whenever musicians from bands with name recognition get together to form something new, the tendency is to instantly dub them as a “supergroup,” even if the individual members shun the label. Such is the case with Saint Asonia, which features Adam Gontier (Three Days Grace) on lead vocals, Mike Mushok (Staind) on guitar, Rich Beddoe (Finger Eleven) on drums and Corey Lowery (Dark New Day, Stereomud, Eye Empire) on bass.
Given the fact “’supergroups” have a tendency to have a relatively short shelf life, it’s understandable why Gontier was quick to dismiss the label…
“Truth is, we’re more like refugees that just really hit it off creatively,” joked Gontier when discussing his view of Saint Asonia.
The band is currently finishing up its debut full-length album (slated for a summer release). Ahead of the release of the album, they have just put out their first single, “Better Place,” which is understandably starting to gain traction on SiriusXM’s Octane already.
Gontier shocked everyone when he parted ways with Three Days Grace over two years ago in the middle of the Transit Of Venus tour, right as the band was at their peak. Citing a desire to “create real music from the heart rather than for radio,” Gontier promised that “real, honest music from his soul” was forthcoming. It took a while, but if “Better Place” is a taste of what’s to come from Saint Asonia’s debut album, then it will have been worth the wait.
Based on the seemingly autobiographical lyrics that Gontier delivers with his signature impassioned angst, you have to believe that he has no regrets about leaving Three Days Grace just as they were ascending into the upper echelon of the hard rock music genre. Is he truly in a “better place” with Saint Asonia? Maybe not from a commercial standpoint (yet), but creatively, it would be hard to argue with him based on the band’s first single.
Whether Saint Asonia gets labeled as a “supergroup” or not is immaterial. The bottom line is that the chemistry between them is undeniable, and the potential is there for Gontier to “have his cake and eat it too” by delivering edgy hard rock that should also appeal to the masses.
Grea to hear new music from Adam. Great song . So much better than what 3days Grace is putting out in my opinion
I’m interested in hearing this album. Stained and Stereomud were my jams back in the day, so I’m curious how close to those bands this band will be.