Born Ruffians

Born Ruffians

Born Ruffians are a Canadian indie rock group from Midland, Ontario. The band forms in 2004 and first performs under the name Mornington Drive before adopting its current name. Its line-up includes Luke Lalonde on guitar and vocals, Mitch DeRosier on bass, Steve Hamelin on drums and Maddy Wilde, with earlier membership including Andy Lloyd on keyboard and guitar.

Formation and background

The band begins in high school in Midland. Mitch DeRosier and Luke Lalonde are cousins, and the two meet Steve Hamelin there. Born Ruffians develop a sound that draws on a wide range of influences, with the Strokes and Caribou among the acts they cite.

Releases and recognition

Born Ruffians issue their first album under the new name in 2006, followed by the self-titled EP. In 2008 they release Red, Yellow & Blue. Their second album receives critical attention and earns an Independent Music Awards nomination for Pop/Rock Album of the Year. In 2010 they release Say It, and during that period Andy Lloyd joins the group. Their 2013 album Birthmarks is released with Yep Roc and Paper Bag Records.

Style and labels

The group is associated with indie pop and indie rock, and is also linked with garage rock, lo-fi, pop punk, pop rock and power pop. Their releases appear on Born Ruffians Inc. and Warp, as well as Yep Roc and Paper Bag Records.