Andy Curran, a foundational figure in Canadian rock whose distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence defined an era, is set to reignite his solo career with the release of "Rockaholic," a meticulously crafted, limited-edition collector’s EP. This release serves as a powerful bridge, artfully connecting the celebrated past of the CONEY HATCH frontman with his vibrant present and promising future. For dedicated fans who came of age in the pulsating heart of the 1980s and the early 1990s, Curran’s name is synonymous with the raw energy and anthemic power of Canadian hard rock. "Rockaholic" not only revisits seminal tracks from his solo archives but also introduces two brand-new compositions, offering a comprehensive sonic journey through his enduring artistry.
The initial 100 copies of the "Rockaholic" EP, exclusively available for purchase through Vault-Press.com, will offer an unparalleled opportunity for collectors. These select editions will include a set of handwritten lyrics, personally autographed by Andy Curran from his own private archives. This intimate touch underscores the deeply personal nature of this release and its connection to Curran’s storied musical journey. The EP represents the vanguard of a significant vinyl revival project orchestrated by Curran and Vault Press. "Rockaholic" is slated to be the first of three distinct vinyl releases unearthed from Curran’s extensive archives, with two additional LPs, "Caramel" and "Leisureworld," slated for a 2027 debut. This multi-release strategy signals a deliberate and comprehensive effort to make previously less accessible or unreleased material available to a new generation of fans and seasoned collectors alike.
The production of "Rockaholic" boasts an impressive pedigree, reflecting Curran’s commitment to delivering a high-fidelity listening experience. The EP was meticulously recorded across three renowned Canadian studios: Metalworks Studios in Toronto, Halo Studios in Hamilton, and Noble Street Studios, also in Toronto. The sonic landscape was then shaped by the expertise of Juno Award-winning producer Vic Florencia, who not only mixed the tracks but also co-produced the EP. The final polish was applied by Grammy-winning engineer Harry Hess at HBomb Mastering, ensuring that each note resonates with clarity and power. This collaborative effort between esteemed professionals highlights the significant investment and artistic vision behind the "Rockaholic" release.
Andy Curran’s indelible mark on Canadian rock music is a narrative woven through decades of influential performances and chart-topping hits. As a founding member and the commanding lead vocalist of CONEY HATCH, Curran was instrumental in forging the band’s identity as one of Canada’s most revered hard rock outfits. During their formative years, CONEY HATCH shared concert stages with titans of the global rock scene, including JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN, CHEAP TRICK, Peter Frampton, and Ted Nugent. Their self-titled debut album achieved gold certification in Canada, spawning enduring rock radio staples such as "Devil’s Deck" and "Monkey Bars," tracks that continue to resonate with fans and are often cited as cornerstones of Canadian rock radio playlists.
Following the impactful tenure with CONEY HATCH, Curran embarked on a successful solo career. His self-titled debut album proved to be a significant commercial and critical success, yielding three Top 10 Canadian rock radio hits: "No Tattoos," "License To Love," and "Let Go." These anthems quickly became ubiquitous on Canadian rock radio airwaves and were a constant fixture on MuchMusic, the country’s premier music television channel. Curran’s solo endeavors were further amplified by an extensive touring schedule, which saw him perform alongside other prominent Canadian artists such as RUSH, Kim Mitchell, GLASS TIGER, and Rik Emmett, solidifying his status as a significant solo artist in his own right.
Curran’s contributions to the Canadian music landscape have been formally recognized with a Juno Award win for "Most Promising Male Vocalist." He also received a nomination for "Best Rock Album" in the same year, an honor he ultimately conceded to his friends in RUSH, a testament to the camaraderie and respect within the Canadian music community. Beyond his vocal and performance achievements, Curran has also been a driving force behind other notable musical projects. His co-founding of ENVY OF NONE alongside RUSH guitarist Alex Lifeson further cemented his legacy and demonstrated his continued relevance and innovative spirit within the rock genre. This collaboration highlights Curran’s ability to connect with and contribute to projects at the highest echelons of rock music.
The release of "Rockaholic" marks a pivotal moment as Curran prepares to bring the music from his solo years back to the live stage. In 2027, he is scheduled to embark on a series of performances alongside the legendary Canadian rock band APRIL WINE. This reunion with his solo material is particularly significant. "This is the first time since 1992 that I’ll be playing some of this material," Curran explained, expressing his enthusiasm for revisiting these beloved songs. The setlist for these upcoming shows is expected to feature iconic solo tracks such as "Nickels & Dimes," "Whiskey & The Devil," "License To Love," and "No Tattoos." These fan favorites will be complemented by the premiere of the new song "Rockaholic" and a selection of cherished CONEY HATCH anthems, promising a diverse and high-energy concert experience.
Curran will be joined on stage by a formidable lineup of musicians. This ensemble includes his CONEY HATCH bandmates Sean Kelly on guitar and Dave Ketchum on drums. The lineup is further bolstered by the inclusion of James Naro, son of the late Phil Naro, a vocalist renowned for his work with the band TALAS. This combination of seasoned collaborators and emerging talent suggests a powerful and dynamic live performance.
The "Rockaholic" EP is not merely an exercise in nostalgia; it represents a vibrant snapshot of Curran’s artistic trajectory. The release meticulously documents his origins, showcases his current creative output, and hints at the wealth of unreleased material waiting to be discovered within his extensive archives. As Curran himself articulated, the title track "Rockaholic" carries a personal resonance: "I wrote this song about my bandmate, Sean Kelly, but I think deep down everyone has a little ‘Rockaholic’ in them." This statement suggests a universal theme of passion and dedication to music that transcends individual experience.
The tracklist for the "Rockaholic" EP has been detailed, offering fans a clear insight into the sonic content:
- Rockaholic (album version) – The new title track, offering a contemporary expression of Curran’s enduring rock ethos.
- Lookin’ For Love – A significant inclusion as it marks its first-ever release on vinyl, a highly anticipated addition for collectors.
- No Tattoos (2026 remixed and remastered) – A beloved hit from Curran’s solo debut, revitalized with modern production techniques.
- License To Love (2026 remixed and remastered) – Another chart-topping solo track, re-engineered for a fresh listening experience.
The announcement of Andy Curran’s live performances alongside APRIL WINE further solidifies his active presence in the music scene:
- January 22, 2027 – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Ottawa, ON (with APRIL WINE)
- March 5, 2027 – Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls, ON (with APRIL WINE)
These dates represent a significant return to the concert stage for Curran, offering fans across Canada the opportunity to witness him perform a curated selection of his most iconic material.
The "Rockaholic" EP and the subsequent archival vinyl releases are being brought to life by Vault Press Inc., a Toronto-based boutique curator and production company dedicated to creating limited-edition vinyl and CD releases for passionate music fans and collectors. Vault Press distinguishes itself by its collaborative approach, working directly with artists, management teams, and fan communities to unearth and present exceptional, often previously unreleased, musical content in collectible physical formats. The company is co-owned by a trio of music industry veterans: Andy Curran himself, Juno Award-winning engineer Harry Hess, and Louise Clements. This ownership structure ensures a deep understanding of both the artistic and commercial aspects of music production and distribution. Vault Press manages the entire production pipeline, from concept development and curation through to mastering, manufacturing, and delivery. Their singular focus is on crafting an experience that is truly worthy of the music and the devoted fans who cherish it. For premium vinyl manufacturing and fulfillment, Vault Press partners with Precision Record Pressing (PRP), a leading name in high-quality vinyl production. This strategic partnership guarantees that the physical products meet the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
The broader implications of this initiative extend beyond a mere retrospective. The unveiling of "Rockaholic" and the planned archival releases from Andy Curran’s vaults signify a significant cultural moment for Canadian rock music. It provides a tangible link to a golden era of Canadian rock, while simultaneously demonstrating the enduring relevance and creative vitality of its key figures. The emphasis on limited-edition physical formats, particularly vinyl, caters to a growing market of collectors who value the tangible experience and sonic warmth of analog recordings. Furthermore, the collaboration with Vault Press, an entity co-owned by Curran, suggests a long-term commitment to preserving and promoting his legacy and that of other artists within their curated network. This initiative not only offers fans a chance to reconnect with cherished music but also introduces a new generation to the foundational artists who shaped the sound of Canadian rock. The inclusion of new material alongside remastered classics and previously unreleased tracks demonstrates a forward-looking approach, ensuring that Curran’s artistic narrative continues to evolve and captivate. The archival releases, in particular, promise to shed light on unexplored corners of his discography, potentially revealing hidden gems and offering new perspectives on his creative development. The upcoming live performances with April Wine will serve as a powerful catalyst, amplifying the impact of the "Rockaholic" release and generating further excitement for the subsequent archival projects. This multifaceted approach underscores Andy Curran’s enduring passion for music and his commitment to sharing his artistic journey with fans, both old and new.
The professional photography credited to Richard Sibbald, courtesy of Kscope, further enhances the visual presentation of this significant release, adding a layer of artistic polish that complements the high-quality audio production. This attention to detail across all aspects of the "Rockaholic" release—from the music itself to the packaging and promotional efforts—underscores the dedication and passion driving this project, solidifying Andy Curran’s enduring legacy in the annals of Canadian rock music.
