Stratones, Les

Websites:  No
Origin: Saint-Sauveur, Québec, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Les Stratones – Pour Ouvrir le bal: A Hidden Gem of Quebec Garage Rock
Hailing from the underground scene of Quebec City in the mid-1960s, Les Stratones remain an enigmatic band, known primarily for their sole 45 RPM release on the LOIR label. Formed around 1964-65, the band's name is believed to be inspired by the iconic Stratocaster guitar, a staple among young musicians of the era.

The band initially consisted of Jacques Gingras (rhythm guitar, vocals), Georges Côté (lead guitar), Gaétan Bernard (rhythm guitar), Louis Guimont (saxophone), Lawrence Allison (bass), and Michel Leblond (drums). However, as with many bands of the time, lineup changes occurred, and by the time they recorded their only single, the lineup had shifted to Lawrence Allison (vocals, bass), Jean Veilleux (lead guitar), Denis Collette (rhythm guitar), and Jacques Arsenault (drums).

Like other Quebec garage bands, Les Stratones were part of the musical stable managed by Bob Chamberland, alongside acts like Les Odd’s, Les Pieds Nickelés, Les Gants Blancs, Les Maraudeurs, and Paskal et les Seigneurs. Their main stomping ground was Le Centre Durocher in the Saint-Sauveur district, but they also played local dance halls and community centers. One of their biggest moments came on May 15, 1966, when they participated in a major band jamboree at Centre Monseigneur Marcoux, sharing the stage with groups like Les Kalamazoo, Les Révoltés, Les Mocassins, Les Bateliers, and Les Phakirs.

The Music: A Rare and Sought-After 45
Their lone single, released on LOIR, is a coveted item among collectors of Quebec garage rock, especially in MINT condition.

Side A: "Petite Sœur" (written by Lawrence Allison) – This track opens with a fuzzy, punchy guitar intro that immediately grabs attention. The lyrics, while somewhat naïve, fit the spirit of the time—offering big-brotherly advice to a younger sister, urging her to step into adulthood. The mid-song guitar solo stands out as a highlight, showcasing an unexpectedly interesting and gritty tone.

Side B: "Laisse-moi petite fille" – A cover of a song by Hugues Aufray, this track is a softer, more traditional ballad typical of the era. While it fits the aesthetic of the 1960s, it doesn't quite match the energy or raw charm of "Petite Sœur".

Legacy and Rarity
Despite their brief existence, Les Stratones left behind a single that has grown into a cult classic among collectors of Quebec garage rock. Unfortunately, their music has never received an official CD reissue, making original pressings all the more desirable. For those who appreciate the raw, untamed sound of 60s garage rock, "Pour Ouvrir le bal" is an absolute MUST-HAVE.
-Robert Williston