Formed in 2023, Toronto rock band Mad Iris has the look, sound, and feel of a 90s garage rock band. They got their start by making a name for themselves in Toronto’s local underground alternative scene. Frontwomen Kaiya Rosie and Ela Hintasu are insanely dynamic vocalists - combining those abrasive “bratty” screams with hushed gentler moments. Patrick Muldoon’s kaleidoscope guitar distortion and Josh Pryce’s roaring drum beats highlight that shoegaze, grunge, noise rock style perfectly well. They do not shy away from their 90s inspiration with old school MTV music videos, scrapbook show flyers, alleyway photoshoots, and slacker-rock fashion.
Their new single, “Poor Baby”, is soaked in self-pity and pointing fingers. The track kicks off with fuzzy, dual vocals and a warm analogue guitar line, easing into a chorus that gradually cranks up the intensity like someone slowly turning a dial. The phrase "Poor Baby" works as both a sweet nickname whilst also capturing that raw mix of shame and vulnerability that can show up in romantic relationships - the kind of exposed feeling that comes with being fully seen and loved. It’s incredibly nostalgic how they are able to lean into that 90s garage sound, equal parts comforting and bittersweet , anchored by distorted guitars and rough-edged, feminine vocals.
“Poor Baby” is their first release on Ba Da Bing Records, with much more to come. Mad Iris self-distributed four releases: “Tipp City”, “Name Tag”, “Under the Bed”, and “Soursweet/Check!”. If you’re a fan of “Poor Baby,” check out their music video for “Check!” and stay tuned for what Mad Iris has in store for the future!