Having just purchased tickets to see Morrissey (God, I hope he doesn't cancel) and James at this year’s CityFolk event, I figured it was prudent to check out the other acts playing. One of the bands listed was School House, a name that hadn’t really been on my radar. I was doing yard work yesterday, so it seemed like the perfect time to listen to something new. I put on their self-titled 2023 album, and as soon as the opening track started, I knew this was going to be a band right up my street. The album flew by, and I was already eager to dig a little deeper. Imagine my surprise when I discovered they’re based right here in Ottawa.

As mentioned earlier, their self-titled album came out in 2023, and since then they’ve released a string of singles and EPs. The one I’m reviewing here is their latest EP, That Old Me, released earlier this year.

They describe their sound as “born around a campfire,” with a focus on three-part harmonies. That’s exactly what you get with That Old Me, a laid-back atmosphere with delicate vocals and emotive acoustic backing. You can practically hear the campfire crackling in the background.

Towards the Light follows with a much more rockabilly beat. You can’t help but tap your foot along. It’s upbeat and rhythmically engaging in a really satisfying way.

Next is Pretty, which returns to a gentler, more delicate tone. There's a hint of whimsy and a romantic lilt. I can easily imagine it playing as a couple walks out of the church after their wedding—sweet, understated, and full of feeling.

Morning Light is probably the vocal highlight for me. The instrumentation is simple and supportive, but it's the voice that truly elevates the track. It’s heartfelt and beautifully delivered.

The EP closes with Touch Down in Texas. As soon as it began, I was reminded of John Lennon's Oh Yoko!, the last track on his 1971 Imagine album. Instead of piano, it sounds like they use a banjo here. But that similarity is brief. The song quickly establishes its own identity and offers a happy, upbeat conclusion that leaves you wanting more.

Overall, That Old Me is a terrific release. School House has quickly become a band I’m excited to follow, and I can’t wait to see them live in September.