Canadian rock duo Cleopatrick, hailing from Cobourg, Ontario, has unleashed their highly anticipated sophomore album, Fake Moon, via their label Nowhere Special Recordings. Following the gritty, high-octane debut Bummer, this release marks a daring sonic shift for childhood friends Luke Gruntz and Ian Fraser. Fake Moon trades abrasive hooks for a contemplative blend of post-rock, lo-fi folk, and hip-hop influences, reflecting a matured perspective post-pandemic. Recorded with producer Philip Weinrobe in Brooklyn, the album’s expansive soundscapes and raw intimacy signal Cleopatrick’s evolution, drawing comparisons to Radiohead and Dijon.
The album’s lead singles—“Hammer,” “Please,” and “Bad Guy”—set the tone for its introspective journey. Gruntz’s haunting vocals weave through glitchy guitars and bit-crushed samples, exploring themes of belonging, guilt, and illusion. The title Fake Moon nods to a surreal concept inspired by conspiracy theories, symbolizing shared yet fractured perceptions. Tracks like “Heat Death” and “Chew” showcase the duo’s experimental edge, balancing vulnerability with defiance.
Cleopatrick’s Fake Moon arrives as the band gears up for a UK and Ireland tour, including a sold-out London show at Electric Brixton. With over 100 million streams and a JUNO nomination under their belt, this release cements their status as innovators. Fans on X are buzzing, calling it a “beautiful reset”—proof that Cleopatrick can captivate, even at a slower burn.
Fake Moon Tracklist
- Heat Death
- Bad Guy
- Hammer
- Please
- Softdrive
- Chew
- Big Machine
- Sarah
- Fake Moon
- Love You