Music

Toronto Trio BBQ Pope Navigate Adulthood And Grief On Their Long-Awaited Sophomore Album ‘Unfurl’

Jan 16, 2026

Toronto indie rock trio BBQ Pope have officially returned with their second full-length album ‘UNFURL’. This nine-song collection represents a bold reflection on grief and the transition into adulthood following a three-year hiatus for the group. Members Reid Millar, Sean Hackl, and Duncan Briggs worked with producer Dylan Frankland at Wychwood Sound to sharpen their garage-punk and psychedelic foundations. The record balances raw heaviness with a sense of gratitude and maturity. It is an assertive and honest document of perseverance that remains true to the DIY spirit the band established at their start in 2015.

The album centerpieces the cathartic single “Pool Hall” which explores the duality of memory and loss. Written as a tribute to a close friend, the track transforms nostalgia for familiar Toronto haunts into a powerful indie rock anthem. Reid Millar delivers a vulnerable vocal performance over layered guitars and a driving rhythm section. This song specifically illustrates the band’s growth as they translate heavy emotional themes into hook-driven arrangements. The production focuses on sonic clarity while maintaining the grit of their live show. Every note on the record serves a functional purpose in telling a story of survival and friendship.

The sessions at Wychwood Sound allowed the trio to experiment with textures ranging from grunge to power-pop. This focus on craftsmanship ensures that ‘UNFURL’ stands as their most cohesive work to date. By facing the uncertainties of modern life with grit and honesty, BBQ Pope have solidified their place in the Ontario underground scene. The record successfully captures the high-energy spirit of their performances alongside the The Dirty Nil and Chastity. It is a triumphant return for a band that understands the enduring strength of shared history and creative discipline. This album provides a concrete look at a band coming into their own.