The World Provider is the superheroic musical alter ego of Montreal’s own Malcolm Fraser, a mild-mannered artist with a flair for the spectacular. Since 1999, Fraser and his ever-evolving lineup of collaborators have been serving up a heady mix of new wave, glam, garage rock, and indie pop — a blend as catchy as it is joyfully offbeat. Known for mind-sticking melodies, DIY synth-rock swagger, and a touch of theatrical absurdity, The World Provider has earned praise for its fearless originality: “so free of outside judgment… assertively goofy and yet unpresuming of any other standards of cool,” wrote critic Carl Wilson.
Emerging from the same vibrant Toronto scene that produced Peaches, Feist, and Chilly Gonzales, Fraser has called Montreal home since 2001, where he’s released six albums, toured internationally, and built a cult following for his blend of humour, heart, and raw melodic hooks — a sound that’s equal parts rock hero and anti-hero.
Name:
The World Provider
Genre:
New wave, glam, garage rock and indie pop
Founded:
1999
# of Albums:
6
Latest Album:
THEMES
Latest Single:
Faster/One More Try feat. Peaches
Latest Video:
Anytime
Favourite musician growing up:
If I’m being honest, and have to narrow it down to one, it would be Weird Al
Favourite musician now:
Probably Weyes Blood
Guilty pleasure song:
I’d love to say, to quote Harmony Korine, that “none of my pleasures are guilty,” but I do feel that my enjoyment of “I Had Some Help,” by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen (or is the other way round?) is somehow wrong
Live show ritual:
Just some vocal warmups and stretches while I don my stage attire. I used to have a glass of whiskey before going onstage, but I’m not drinking so much these days… so we’ll see!
Favourite local musician:
I’d have to say Kahero:ton. She is one of the most creative musicians out there (and she’s opening for me at my record launch!)
EP or LP?
I love EPs because they encourage an “all killer, no filler” approach. But they’re not considered to “count” as full releases by the powers that be.
Early bird or night owl?
When you have a kid and a dog, you are a morning person whether you like it or not!
Road or studio?
I love recording, but performing wins by a hair
Where can we follow you?
Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Maybe Hot Dog Mont-Royal? Classic diner spot where (importantly) you can get “baby” size poutine (just the right amount)
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
I’d have to say my street, Outremont. Where I live (Parc Ex) the houses were built for veterans’ housing after WWII. It feels like a 50s suburb surrounded by urban density – the best of both worlds. It takes a cute little curve right before Jarry… then goes all the way to the mountain.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Tough call, but I’d say Parc Lafontaine… edges out the competition with its proximity to Ma Poule Mouillée (Portuguese chicken place on Rachel)
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Casa del Popolo
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Cheap Thrills.
