A dynamic Canadian indie rock group led by guitarist/songwriter Todd Austin John Elsliger, Toronto's Austin John combine deft musicianship and sharp lyricism with pure pop acumen. Citing a wide array of influences that includes Elvis Costello, Death Cab for Cutie, Joni Mitchell, Prefab Sprout, and Ron Sexsmith, the band issued an eponymous debut EP in 2007. Two years later, they unveiled their first full-length effort, People, Places, Things. Please Everyone arrived in 2012, followed by the features-heavy Lilac in 2016. The Better Way Back When, the group's nostalgia-heavy third long-player, saw release in 2020. ~ James Christopher Monger