A 12-Year-Old Punk Rocker Recording at the Library
When we first opened the recording studio at the Labs in Central Library, we hoped it would become a creative space where Londoners of all ages could explore their passions and express themselves through sound. Over the years, the studio has welcomed podcasters, singers, producers, and musicians of all kinds. And among them, one artist stands out—not just for his age, but for his talent, creativity, and unmistakable punk rock spirit.
Meet Isaak and the Holy Guitar.
Isaak is 12 years old. His band name is a playful twist inspired by Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and his music carries that same sense of humour and individuality. We first discovered his work through Instagram, when two EPs caught our attention—The Library Sessions, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2. Both were recorded right here in our studio at Central Library.
Isaak's journey with music started early. He picked up the drums at age four, then transitioned to acoustic guitar before falling in love with electric. His sound defies a single label—he describes it as “very all over the place,” ranging from avant-garde to classic punk. His approach to music is refreshingly DIY, from hand-drawn album art to experimenting with our studio equipment.
Recording at the Library was a learning experience Isaak took on with curiosity and drive. With support from his dad, he tested out microphones, learned the ins and outs of the recording software, and shaped the sound that would become his first EP. As Isaak puts it, “We mostly called it The Library Sessions because we recorded in the Library, and we wanted to pay homage to that.”
Our studio was built with new creators like Isaak in mind. As he shared, “It was really good for beginners… recording was fun. It was really simple to understand.” Most of the gear he needed was already in the space, including an in-house bass guitar that made it into the intro of his second EP.
Though Isaak is originally from Newfoundland, he’s found a home in London’s music scene. He speaks highly of the local community and often performs live. His guitar, covered in stickers, includes one from local record store Odyssey Records, tells a story of a young artist deeply connected to the city’s creative landscape.
He may not be a household name yet, but Isaak is just getting started. Library Sessions: Vol. 3 is currently in the works, with themes ranging from “egg punk” to heavier punk styles. Whatever direction he chooses, we’re excited to hear where his sound takes him next.
When asked if he has any advice for other young musicians thinking of recording at the Library, Isaak offers this: “Mostly the advice is make sure it’s not too loud so the people outside don’t hear you recording your metal music.”
Loud or not, we welcome the creativity.
Want to Record Your Own Library Sessions?
The Recording Studio at the Labs in Central Library is free to use. Book up to two hours per day, up to a week in advance. Whether you're a musician, podcaster, or just exploring sound for the first time, we’ve got the tools and space to help you get started.
Book now at info@lpl.ca or call us at 519-661-4600.
We can’t wait to hear what you create.
Follow Isaak on social media and Bandcamp.