Ah summer, season of the construction project. No matter where I go, no matter how idyllic the park or peaceful the rooftop, there’s always some tool (and some person using it, har har) razzing up the neighbourhood. Oh well, all the more reason to stay indoors trolling YouTube for videos.

Some of the most curious and intriguing music I’ve heard in a while is being made by Montreal’s Elfin Saddle, a duo whose stage set-up could probably double as either a kitchen or toolshed - you got yer pot lids, saws, duct tape and what-all and somehow it all adds up to beeyootiful music.

Here they are playing live in Montreal at a showcase handpicked by music fans extraordinaire Said the Gramophone. I especially love Emi Honda’s skills on the singing saw; if only my neighbours’ backyard projects could sound so sweet.

You can also buy mp3s of Elfin Saddle and many other fine bands from the website Villa Villa Nola, an innovative “store” that releases rare recordings on the internet, meaning there’s a lot of opportunity to get a hold of stuff that may be too ephemeral or small-scale for a record label or large-scale distribution but still really ought to be heard. They cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you! Um, okay, now that the spirit of Ikea has left my body, I leave you to your listening. Enjoy.