Kanak releases “Not Right Now”

Photo by Stephanie Kanac

(ASBURY PARK, NJ) —  “‘Not Right Now’ captures the essence of a struggle against the tide of challenges and unfulfilled expectations,” says lead singer/songwriter Tom Kanach of New Jersey-based rock band Kanak, about their newest single and video which was released on February 23rd. The propulsive and driving single sheds a light on the reality of postponed dreams and aspirations, a common thematic thread that ties together their upcoming EP, On The Outside (release date: March 22, 2024 via Pop Clique / The Orchard).

Tom adds, “’Not Right Now’ reflects on the universal experience of waiting for a better day, a breakthrough, or a turn of events, only to be met with the persistent reality of things remaining unchanged.”

The follow-up to their last single “Outside” which The Jersey Sound describes as “a hard-driving groove,” “Not Right Now” continues the reality check that the former single splashed. “Coming out of the global pandemic and losing my father to COVID really made me realize how fleeting time is and how lonely life can be,” Tom explains.

“Not Right Now” carries an emotional weight that harbors a frustration of detours and having to learn to work through it, but with Kanak, they have an open mindset, to persevere through the overcast. “The song builds on this tension, expressing a mix of resignation and determination, acknowledging that change may be on the horizon, but it’s not immediate,” expresses Tom.

Recording with legendary producer and mixer Ed Stasium (The Ramones, Talking Heads, Motörhead) who had previously worked with guitarist Johnny Rao on a different project, the band was hopeful to work with him on the EP and were floored when he said ‘yes.’ “Having three guitar players is a challenge and we thought Ed would be the perfect fit for us,” Tom explains. “So, Johnny called Ed. Ed agreed to listen to the songs. He loved them and we flew out to San Diego to record them.”

Big supporter and friend of the band, legendary musical pundit Matt Pinfield (MTV, MTV2) lauds, “There is a clear reason why legendary producer/mixer Ed Stasium who was at the controls for the Ramones, Talking Heads, Smithereens, Motörhead and The Replacements, is putting his talents behind the exciting and promising New jersey band Kanak.

A veteran of the ever-thriving New Jersey rock scene in vital NJ bands such as Grimace, Well of Souls, and Mischief, Tom Kanach has built a formidable reputation and strong friendships with that traversed genres from Lords of the New Church to even Stiv Bators of the Dead Boys. Centralizing all of his focus and energy now into Kanak, he’s ready to push out far beyond and jump headfirst into the mainstream. “There are two voices in your head,” he concludes. “One saying, ‘You need to fit in and be like everyone else’ and the other voice saying ‘Being different and unique is what separates us and makes us beautiful’.” Thankfully for us, he’s chosen the latter.

Kanak is Tom Kanach (vocals, guitars), guitarists Johnny Rao (David Johansen Band / Sylvain Sylvain), Peter Wood (Dramarama), bassist Joe Rowley and drummer Steve Brown. The new single and video for “Not Right Now” is available on all streaming platforms. Their upcoming EP On The Outside is due out March 22, 2024 via Pop clique music/ The Orchard.