You can tell a lot of life went into We Can’t!. Despite its title acting as an anti-rallying cry there’s a lot of call to action on this new release from Toronto’s Weak Hands. Self-described as “pop-punk adjacent”, this new release holds eight tracks of raw feelings pressed against a slick surface of melodic sheen.

“I Miss The Dress That I Wore The First Time You Took Me Dancing” is a song about bittersweet nostalgia re-examined through wizened eyes but also a great tune to put on your best dress and dance to. “Put It On Me” burns with its huge chorus as it takes a beating and asks for more. “Grow a Spine” takes an honest look at bad behavioural patterns that everyone can to relate to. Earnestly, it’s opener “Massey Sign” with its repeated refrain “I’m alright this time” that drives me to believe this to be the case.

I also really enjoyed the Loveless-esque guitar warbles on “Summer Sometimes.”

This record hits on two fronts: a deeply confessional bit of reflection paired with terrific pop-punk sensibilities. Even if only one of those things entices you, you should check out this album.

We Can’t! is available digitally and on cassette through Search and Annoy Records.