The Damn Truth Review

Montreal, in Quebec, Canada, is famous for many things; like its festivals, art, literature, movies, culinary delights, and tourism. The city can add The Damn Truth to its list of noteworthy highlights in the music category. The Damn Truth was formed in 2009 in Montreal and currently includes, Lee-la Baum (lead vocals/guitar), Tom Shemer (lead guitar/vocals), PY Letellier (bass/vocals), and Dave Traina (drums/vocals).

Their newest release, due to drop on March 14, 2025, is The Damn Truth, a self-titled album. The recording was produced by Bob Rock, who has worked with notable artists such as Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, and Aerosmith, just to name a few. The band is a seasoned touring group, having shared stages with Styx, ZZ Top, Rival Sons, Alice Cooper, and John Waite. They have toured Europe and England, as well as appeared as guests on the Rock Legend Cruise and sold out the Whiskey a Go Go in Los Angeles. Lead vocalist, Lee-la Baum self-described the band as, “a hard rock band, but also as rock and roll hippies”. She has been described as “the love child of Robert Plant and Janis Joplin”, and after listening to samples of the band’s music, I can see why. She possesses an extraordinary vocal ability that is accompanied by solid, accomplished musicians that are her bandmates. The one thing that The Damn Truth has, that most groups don’t have, is their very own hot sauce, “Truth Serum” (No joke; you can order it on-line).

The Damn Truth album is a collection of eleven strong, well done songs. The recording opens with “Be Somebody” and Baum sings, “Everyone is carrying a cross and this one’s mine. I just want to be somebody you love”. There’s some great guitar work in the break of the song and at the end. Right out of the gate, I was drawn in by the great vocals and musicianship. Track number four of this project is, “If I Don’t Make It Home”, and it’s personally one of my favorites. Baum sings, “Always be strong, if I don’t make it home”. It’s a rocking power ballad that is sure not to disappoint. “All Night Long” begins with a hot guitar riff that opens the door to this rocker. Have you ever spent all of your money on a guitar? I know a few folks who have; a time or two. This is really a great tune that ventures in the direction of spending all night with the one you love. There’s plenty of great guitar work throughout this one. The very last cut on The Damn Truth is an unforgettable song entitled, “The Dying Dove”. “We all need some love”, are lyrics that apply to everyone on this earth. Love is the one thing that there will never be enough of, and Lee-la Baum sings about the need of love on this song, and does it with conviction.

The Damn Truth has offered up an excellent recording with The Damn Truth. This may well be the project that produces the recognition that they are deserving of. If you love powerful, well written, and performed rock and roll music, you will love this album. I look forward to what adventures may be ahead for the band in the coming years. And yes, I may even order the “Truth Serum” hot sauce from them, because if it is as savory as the music, then it’s going to be some “good stuff”.

The Review: 9/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Be Somebody
– If I Don’t Make It Home
– All Night Long
– The Dying Dove

The Big Hit

– If I Don’t Make It Home