Interviews: Talking 'NINE RIFFS TO RULE THEM ALL' with Chris Aitkens of Gutser

Montreal-based band Gutser unveiled their sophomore album Nine Riffs to Rule Them All last month, delivering a potent fusion of punk, metal, and powerviolence across nine tracks. The album, released digitally through Hell For Breakfast and physically on cassette by Tarantula Tapes, explores a diverse array of social and political themes while maintaining a raw and aggressive sound.

The album title pays homage to classic fantasy motifs, particularly nodding to The Lord of the Rings, reflecting the band’s playful yet deliberate approach. The name originated from a song on the album that features nine distinct riffs, conceived by guitarist Paul. This thematic choice emphasizes both the structural and conceptual unity within the record.

Visual presentation plays a significant role in the album's identity. The cover art, featuring a carved wooden block with symbolic items, was crafted with a ceremonial aesthetic in mind. Personal artifacts such as a childhood knife belonging to the bassist, a vicuña hoof from Bolivia, and a small handmade book celebrating the band's decade-long journey, anchor the imagery in tangible band history. A subtle tribute is also paid to Nick Babeu, late singer of influential hardcore band Trigger Effect, reflecting Gutser’s deep roots in the local punk community.

Musically, the album embraces collaboration and community. The title track includes a layered choir of friends and fellow artists recorded both in-person and remotely, blending diverse voices into a textured background that complements the lead vocals without individual prominence. This collective effort underscores the band's connection to Montreal’s vibrant underground scene.

Frontman Chris Aitkens describes the songwriting process as a balance between structured riffs from Paul and organic contributions from the rhythm section, with lyrics often inspired by current political climates or personal reflections. Some tracks confront systemic issues directly, such as "Oppressed By Jeff," which critiques the wealth disparities exemplified by Amazon and the broader capitalist system. Others touch on topics like climate change, trans rights, and the absurdity of bathroom policing laws.

Aitkens also reveals the evolving personal significance of certain songs, particularly "The World Is My Toilet," initially written as a response to restrictive bathroom bills. His ongoing exploration of gender identity has added layers of meaning, highlighting the intersection of personal and political themes throughout the album. The band’s openness to experimentation extends to the inclusion of film samples from movies like Seven Psychopaths and Dogma, which provide thematic framing around questions of faith and societal contradictions.

Despite some songs being penned years earlier, many of the issues Gutser addresses remain pressing, underscoring the persistent nature of the political challenges they engage with. The album serves not only as a time capsule but also as a call to awareness and action, reflecting the band’s commitment to relevance and urgency in their art.

Looking ahead, Gutser plans to support the album with live performances, including an appearance at Dopethrone’s Halloween show in Montreal. With Nine Riffs to Rule Them All, the band reinforces its position as a vital voice within the Canadian punk-metal landscape, combining ferocity with thoughtful critique and community-driven creativity.