Epic is pretty much the only way to describe A Primitive Evolution’s music. The Toronto-based band is made up of former members of Lye and Aphasia, and the result of the talented trio making music together is an authoritative testament on what rock and roll really is.

After their well-received eponymous debut in 2009 and featured music in movies and series like Chastity Bites and Stoked, respectively, the band got together to record an unplugged album featuring different versions of songs from their debut; however, APE just couldn’t help themselves, and instead the recording sessions led to the band’s titan sophomore album, The Prize.

The Prize still includes reworked versions of songs found on APE’s debut, but also features three new songs. With influences along the likes of Tool, the Stone Roses, Jane’s Addiction, and Motorhead, it’s no surprise that The Prize is a kickass mix of industrial rock, driving beats, and heavy melodies played by the most hardcore acoustic guitar you will probably meet. The album is produced by the band and John Wozniak of Marcy Playground fame.

Though the album is acoustic as a whole, the songs all have a unique sound and vibe to them. “Lord Of Reason” captures the band’s super-sound, while the rhythmic “I Feel It All” and “Falling Far Behind” kick things up a notch with a hurried drum. The funky beat of “Show Me” and the grumbling bass that accompanies it is the perfect example of the melding of genres that the band puts forth in all their music, while “Dead End” and title track put forward a more pensive and contemplative atmosphere.

Listen to songs from The Prize here and check out the band’s website for more epicness.

A Primitive Evolution are:

Brett Carruthers: Vocals, guitars
Stephany Seki: Bass, cello, vocals
Stu Dead: Drums, percussion