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Reply ASAP

ABOUT

Short Bio

Lessons in Crime, the Ottawa duo of Liam Schwisberg and Paolo Pace, turn vulnerable emotions into catchy, high-energy alt-pop/rock with cinematic flair, driven by guitars, synths, and orchestral flourishes.

Their new single, “Reply ASAP,” is an upbeat, playful yet introspective track about how replying to messages, even from loved ones, can sometimes be such a struggle that it feels like you might need a cheer squad just to hit send.

FULL BIO

Lessons in Crime is an alternative pop/rock duo from Ottawa, ON, made up of Liam Schwisberg and Paolo Pace. The two met while studying at Algonquin College, where the band began in 2017 after Liam asked Paolo to play drums on a final project. Paolo loved the song so much, he didn’t just play on it… he asked if they could start a band.

Entirely self-produced, self-mixed, and self-released, Lessons in Crime blends guitars, shimmering synths, and orchestral textures into songs that blur the line between pop and rock. Their sound is catchy and offbeat, built around honest and vulnerable lyrics that explore mental health, disconnection, and the quiet struggles most people experience but rarely talk about.

Known for their cinematic music videos and theatrical live shows, Liam and Paolo jump between drums, guitar, piano, and ukulele on stage, creating a high-energy performance filled with unexpected moments. “If we’re not totally exhausted and completely drenched in sweat by the end of the show, we know we haven’t done enough,” says Liam.

Their debut album "The Answer Doesn’t Exist," came out in 2019. Now, in 2025, they are rolling out a new string of singles that will form their second full-length album.

While their influences stretch far and wide, Lessons in Crime remains proudly based in Ottawa, a city they believe is poised to become a major music hub.

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