DOWN THE LEES interview - "I've had to go through a lot of battle scars"

When it comes to raw, unapologetic talent and sheer musical force, Down the Lees’ new EP, Dirt, is already making waves in the indie rock scene. Featuring standout tracks like “Douse”-winner of ‘Best Song’ at the 2024 Okanagan Screen Awards-and the powerful single “Downplay,” the EP is a testament to the band’s artistic evolution.
Recorded and mixed by Jesse Gander at Raincity Recorders, whose impressive portfolio includes work with 3 Inches of Blood and Japandroids and mastered by Blake Bickel at Dynamic Sound Service, Dirt is a gritty and polished auditory experience.
At the helm is Laura Lee Schultz, whose commanding vocals and poignant lyrics cut through the noise, delivering life’s harsh truths with a blend of grace and raw power. Emerging from Vancouver’s vibrant music scene, Laura has been the driving force behind Down the Lees for many years now, crafting songs that resonate deeply with their audience.
Montreal Rocks caught up with Laura to delve into the making of Dirt, her fascinating journey as a musician, and what music she’s been excited about recently.