LEE AARON
Born Karen Greening in Belleville, Ontario, she began singing in musical productions at the age of five. Her first big exposure was at 15, when she sang Debbie Boone's "You Light Up My Life" on a Toronto area cable television variety program. She was asked to join a band called Lee Aaron while she was still in high school in Brampton, playing the sax and keyboards. At the age of 17, Aaron was in a car collision, and although surgery wasn't required. her nose was broken and face was badly bruised. Years later, Canadian Musician magazine had to print a retraction to a story they'd done on her, where they mistakenly wrote she had a complete facial reconstruction.
While touring practically every dimly lit biker bar in southern Ontario, she was discovered while playing a summer outdoor festival by manager Rob Donnolly in 1980, who brought her centre stage and soon fired the band, replacing the members with 'real' musicians, and talked her into using the stage name of Lee Aaron. She signed with his Freedom Records and released her independant debut, THE LEE AARON PROJECT in 1982 as a European only import. With Donnolly behind the controls, it was a modest "who's who" of Canadian rock, featuring Rick Santers' band as back-up as well as Rik Emmett's helping hand on "Under Your Spell". Santers' blazing guitar riffs and tight hooks were unmistakeable in "Night Riders" and "Lonely For Your Love". Also noteable were the cover of Willie Dixon's blues classic "I Just Wanna Make Love To You" and the screaming duet with Buzz Shearman, then lead singer for Moxy, "Texas Outlaw".
She signed with Attic Records in '84, who re-released the debut album that same year, adding a version of "Under The Stars" recorded in Toronto's El Mocambo Club. As a promotional stunt, she flew to New York and posed naked for OUI magazine just in time for the release of METAL QUEEN later that same year, a move she later regretted and fired her manager because of. But done for the very modest sum of $25,000, the record marked a lasting writing relationship with guitarist John Albani, formerly of Wrabit. It was Albani that recommended production be handled by Paul Gross, whose credits included Wrabit and Saga. The video for the title track was controversial, receiving an R rating from the BBC in England and thus banned. MuchMusic however was in still in its infancy and desperately needed the Canadian content, so they played it and gained Aaron the much needed exposure. From the song's gothic opening to the fade-out of the final track, "We Will Be Rocking", the album never let up. "Shake It Up" delivered a slick pop-metal sound held together by clever guitar hooks while "Deceiver" showcased Aaron's vocal prowess. The formation of a steady backup band allowed her to launch a cross-Canada tour of smaller venues and was met with countless sell-outs, then piggy-backed on tours with Motley Crue, Ratt, and Bon Jovi across the US. But the band returned home early the next year broke and looking for a new direction.
With the label pressuring her for a follow-up album, CALL OF THE WILD was released in the spring of '85. Produced in part by Bob Ezrin of Alice Cooper and KISS fame, it showed a sophistication in the arrangements, featuring Jerry Mercer of Mashmakhan and April Wine on drums and Spider Sinnaeve of Streetheart and later Loverboy on bass. With keyboards more predominant in tracks like "Burning Love" and the changing rhythms of "Line of Fire", the record was definitely Canadian rock's most under-rated of the year. The record also featured the ballsy "Beat 'Em Up" by Rob Halligan, (later re-done by Blue Oyster Cult ... not as well though). A hastily-put-together new band found themselves opening up for the likes of Bon Jovi, Uriah Heep, Krokus and Kiss all over Europe for the next several months. Although she was initially pencilled in to also open for Blue Oyster Cult while overseas, she had to back out so she could headline her tour of West Germany that winter. She inked a European distribution deal with Virgin subsidiary, 10 Records, in England that year, but it was short-lived when the label declared bankruptcy early in '86.
1987's second self-titled album marked a noticeable shift in attitude for Lee Aaron. Gone was the sultry and hot image, replaced with a more toned-down look. With three tracks co-written by Joe Lynn Turner of Rainbow fame including the single "Only Human", and the ballad "Dream With Me" co-written by Dan Hill, the record was obviously tailored towards more radio play. Aaron again ventured into Europe and was again met with full houses, as was the case back home and in the States. In 1988 she also cameo'd on The Scorpions' "Rhythm of Love."
BODYROCK was released two full years later and the extra time in the studios with producer Brian Allen of Rose and Toronto fame resulted in gold. With the lead-off single "Whatcha Do To My Body", she took suggestive rock videos to a new climax while scoring her biggest single ever. Still geared for FM radio, the record had less experimental keyboards and more of a simple, no-frills approach. "Nasty Boyz" and "Hands On" were further examples of Aaron's ability to shift gears without actually slowing down, as was her cover of Montrose's "Rock Candy". The record would go on to eventually becoming her most successful, selling nearly a quarter of a million copies. She also received two Juno nominations the following year, one for Female Vocalist Of The Year and one for Best Video of The Year for "Whatcha Do To My Body". Fourteen months on the road saw her headline shows throughout North America, Europe and Japan.
1991 saw SOME GIRLS DO hit the stores. Complimenting its predecessor, the album continued Aaron's assault on your senses. The title-track along with other cuts like "Love With Sex" helped push the record gold and further cement her as Canada's queen of hard rock. Also noteable on the record was the cover of Stevie Wonder's "Tell Me Something Good," and "Dangerous" - co-written by Jim Vallance, and "Motor City Boy" which featured a voice over by Toronto DJ John Derringer and written about her then-husband and bass player Greg Doyle. Another North American tour ensued, but disputes between Aaron and Attic Records caused a split between the two later that year. POWERLINE was released the next year and was your typical greatest hits album.
When EMOTIONAL RAIN was released in '94, things had changed. Now in complete control of her own destiny, the record was her first on her own label, Hip Chick Records, and she'd just gone through what she described as a messy divorce. Still, the new album contained some of her strongest material to date, the audiences seemed to have changed. Drawing on inner-emotions, the new record seemed too sophisticated for the majority of the general public, and the critics. Despite the tight riffs and flawless layerings, with the exception of her most die-hard of fans, the crowds just didn't seem to get it. Cuts like the title-track stood on their own, but the album failed to live up to the label execs' expectations. Though bussling with maturity and sophistication, the execs just couldn't seem to find a way to market what is easily one of her most under-rated pieces.
Aaron teamed up with some friends after the EMOTIONAL RAIN tour and released a project under the guise of 2Preciious in '96, featuring slick licks and smooth moods in tracks like "Crawl," "Superbitch," "Black Metal Jesus," and "Dying Star," among others. Although warmly embraced by her die hardest of fans and still a great pop record living up to her own strict standards, it was a far cry from the 'metal queen' image.
Always an avid jazz fan, she wooed fans with her 'second love', releasing the critically acclaimed SLICK CHICK in 2000 with her band, The Swingin' Bar Flies. Featuring the title track, "He Ain't Got Rhythm" and the sassy "Evil Gal Blues", she not only gave her die-hard fans something new to rave about, she picked up a few new ones as well. Taking time for a personal life, she backed out of the limelight in 2002, but still made a guest appearance back in the rock world, when she was featured on Demon's Drive remake of Suzi Quatro's "She's In Love With You". In 2003, POWERLINE was re-released with the same track listing but a different cover.
A year later, EMOTIONAL RAIN was also re-released with a new cover. Now devoting her music career solely to jazz, she released BEAUTIFUL THINGS in 2004, which featured the title track, the lead-off "Museum," "Joan of Arc," "Heart Shaped Hole and "Handcuffed to a Fence in Mississippi.". She returned to her rock roots in 2008 and began switching back and forth between intimate jazz shows and tours with her rock and roll machine. Later that year she released the definitive DVD collection, a 3 disc set entitled RARITIES - STUDIO AND LIVE 1981 - 2008, which included tv performances, live clips, interviews and promo videos.
Official Lee Aaron Web
Site
460 KUSTOM
460 Kustom is a power trio band that consist of the following members:
Dave Whitenect (Guitar/Vox)
Dana Whitenect (Drums)
Jim Yorke (Bass)
Our music has heavy grooves with catchy melodies that can cross just about any genre border. Take a listen and hear for yourself!
Official 460 Kustom Web
Site
7 MILE STARE
The idea for 7 MiLE STARE began in late 2009 with front man Chris Ricketson and drummer Rick Ruth. After playing around on the open mic scene as an acoustic duo, Ricketson and Ruth would officially form the band in February 2010 after adding friends Donnie Watson, Michael Cormier & Darren Crandall. Immediately, 7 MiLE STARE was generating a buzz on the music scene with Ricketson's powerful vocals and the bands high energy performance. The STARE immediately began to establish a following, which would come to be known as the 7 MiLE ARMY, and from here the future success of the band. They soon attracted the attention of producer Dennis Field of Denmark Productions who would enlist the band as part of the line up for the Halifax Plugged - In 9 compilation Album. The album, featuring "Upside Down" and "OVERATED" was released Friday May 14th, 2010 and is set to be the launch pad of their career. Prior to the release of the Plugged - In 9 album, 7 MiLE STARE took part in the 2010 Chester Battle of the Bands. After a full day of music, including 15 bands, the STARE would be crowned the winners landing them a spot at Riverfest 2010! The band is currently preparing to record more music with Denmark Productions and plans to release a 6 song LP later this year.
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL
Air Traffic Control has built a great list of accomplishments and acclaim by way of their Debut self titled release and their second album "To Be Free" Already having been nominated for Alternative Album of the Year by the East Coast Music Association and Music Nova Scotia, Air Traffic Control hit the number one spot on The East Coast Countdown on several occasions, their music has been placed in Film, TV, a video game by EA Sports and their video for "At Any Cost" was shot by award winning director Annie Bradley and received rotation on Much Music.
Air Traffic Control is now preparing to release their third record "Can't Kill Love" which is slated to be out in April. "Can't kill Love" stands as a monumental acheivment in Air Traffic Control's evolution. The album was recorded at Comstock Recording Studios, a facility that is run by brother/partner team of Kirk and Jordi and is situated in their home town of Lunenburg.
Front to back, "Can't Kill Love" is the kind of album great bands make - the kind that’s listenable from beginning to end. It has dynamic, organic guitars and heartfelt lyrics of life, love and loss from a front man who cites litirary influences that include Henry Miller and Jack Kerouac; a surefire percussion section from a drummer that has been nominated by the Nova Scotian Music Association as Musician of the Year three years in a row; and a bassist who credits Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order as his idol.
Already a known entity amongst industry insiders and music fans, and with a new record on the horizon, there’s no telling where "Can't Kill Love" will take these secret stars from small-town Lunenburg, set to play packed audiences in cities everywhere. If you haven’t heard of Air Traffic Control yet, now’s the time to listen.
Official Air Traffic Control Web
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ALICE STOPS TIME
Spunk, class and retro style Alice Stops Time is an alternative rock band based out of Hants County Nova Scotia. The band has unique influences from surf and dance music that contributes to their trademark sound. That sound and the bands engaging presence have taken the young group of five from intimate acoustic shows in rural Nova Scotia to larger status stages like Pop Montreal. > > Alice Stops Time is quickly breaking into east coast music circles with high energy performances showcasing their own style of rock, surf, blues and dance. > > > > ALBUM REVIEW "This disc can only be described as power pop for smart people. AST is the very epitome of what is all good about the indie scene. These young men did not have a know-nothing record exec standing over them screaming about format. There's surfy goodness, there's punky tude', and wisdom clearly beyond their years. Imagine if Dick Dale and the Dead Kennedys procreated... that would be one messed up genius of an offspring and his name would be Alice. This record is going to get AST noticed. See them while you can, their stock is about to rise very fast." > -Darrin Harvey, Announcer 89.3 K-ROCK
Alice Stops Time MySpace
AQUESTRYA
AQUESTRYA is Halifax's only Female Fronted Progressive Metal/ Symphonic Rock band. Our music is often described as being "Epic" given we are a progressive blend of Classical, Latin, Middle Eastern, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal musical elements. When you combine powerfuly soaring female vocals with provocative haromony, intense & sexy drum beats, incredibly fast and complex guitar riffs, active piano with ethereal strings and other unique sounds programmed by scratch, you get a sound that's completely unique to the Maritimes.
BILL KIDNEY (Songwriters Cirlce Host)
Energetic! Controversial! Provocative! Captivating! All of this and more can be said about Bill Kidney, who has been a notable player in the East Coast music scene for several years. As a solo performer and the frontman of Complete Control, Bill has performed alongside many great musicians in a plethora of venues.
When performing as a solo act, Bill brings his music back to the place it came from as he slings his original music, typically armed with just his voice and a guitar... however, sometimes everyone needs a little help from their friends and you can catch him performing with people he has shared musical interests along his musical journey
Official Bill Kidney FaceBook Page
CARLETON STONE DRIVES THE BIG WHEEL
Dripping with sweat and covered in proverbial stardust, Carleton Stone’s live show will leave you believing this front man was born onstage. Synced like a well-oiled machine, the dynamic hook-rock quintet gains more and more momentum as their electrifying shows take Canada by storm. With a complete, super charged E-Street orchestration, yoked to the lyrical wit and conviction of a Ryan Adams or Elvis Costello, Carleton Stone Drives the Big Wheel has concocted the perfect hit-maker balance of passion, originality and relentless live energy.
Carleton Stone DTBW works hard. Since their naissance in July 2008, the band recorded a full-length record at internationally acclaimed Lakewind Sound Studios that dropped in June 2009, found themselves on stage supporting acts like Hedley, Matt Mays, Hey Rosetta!, and Gordie Sampson, while still pulling off constant, barn-burning, off-with-your-pants rock shows around the Maritimes.
The band's debut album was nominated for an 2010 East Coast Music Award ("Rock Recording of the Year") and two Music Nova Scotia awards ("New Artist/Group Recording" and "Pop/Rock Artist/Group Recording"), in addition to showcasing at both events. The band also won Music Nova Scotia's "Battle to Canadian Music Week", defeating fifteen other Nova Scotia bands, earning the band a headlining spot on the "Music Nova Scotia: Enter the Tiki" stage during Canadian Music Week in Toronto. The band will be touring around Eastern Canada this summer and finishing work on their second LP, due to drop in late 2010.
Official Carleton Stone Drives The Big Wheel Site
DEVILS ELBOW
The group Devils Elbow was formed late in 2008, when four studly young men decided to put there talents to work. They all had one thing in common, their love of music. These close friends and family, coming from a small town, only knowing one way to prevail.... Hard Work!!! With effort set in motion, the band would soon realize that they had what it took to make a name for themselves. Although strong musicianship is well noted, the boys are also known for their desire to succeed and their ability to entertain. With a first class stage presence and music to build memories on, this is a band you don’t want to miss. While 2009 is set to be the launching pad for this group they promise a bright future!!! Keep your eyes and ears open, for you can count on hearing big things about Devils Elbow...
Official Devils Elbow Web
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DRUMLIN
Drumlin is a family band from Nova Scotia with a passion for adapting, arranging, and restoring fragmented Canadian heritage songs into a cutting edge fusion of traditional and modern music. Dal, Anya, Kassia, and Liam Gilbert are multi-instrumental performers and talented songwriters, giving expression to the inner thoughts and candid observations of the new generation.
Drumlin has been performing together for almost a decade. Their dynamic musical presence heartens the audience and celebrates life. The heritage songs performed by Drumlin have a rich and mystical history, creating the musical equivalent of historical fiction: entertainment and intimate insight into the past. Drumlin's East Coast sound and sibling harmonies are being featured on an ever-increasing number of other Canadian albums.
Drumlin's new release 'Mackerel Skies' features twelve intriguing and untamed Nova Scotia heritage songs selected from the collections of folklorist Helen Creighton. These songs were chosen from over one thousand tunes found in the Nova Scotia Archives. 'Mackerel Skies' has charted in the ‘top ten’ on college radio stations across the nation, was embraced by CBC radio, and has received great reviews, numerous accolades, and international airplay.
Official Drumlin Web
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DWIGHT D'EON
There's nothing predictable about DWIGHT DEON. Dwight's powerful voice and hard driving rock and roll sound explodes, surprises and continually rewards his listeners from start to finish. “Anthems for the Restless” is an unforgettable collection of songs that is the culmination of a compelling personal and musical journey.
At the end of the summer of 2007, Dwight Deon had become a household name to millions of people across Canada. The top 4 finalist on CTV's Canadian Idol had reached a high point in his musical career and proven his worth against thousands of other young singers to secure his rank amongst the alumni of Idol's elite.
Not content, though, to ride on the coattails of this mainstream success, d'Eon returned to Nova Scotia with his next big project firmly in mind. He regrouped with his band mates: Aran Hill (bass), Q (drums) and Adam Driscoll (violin), and moved into Sound Market Studios in Halifax at the end of 2007. Deon, a graduate of the recording arts program, undertook engineering, mixing and producing the album, along with Terry Pulliam (Sloan, Buck 65) acting as co-producer.
What ensued was a gruelling recording schedule, filled with long days and nights at the studio, an almost obsessive compulsive attention to detail and countless hours of re-writes, in order to achieve the sonic and artistic watermark d'Eon had set for the band.
With the support of a world-wide publishing deal with Sound of Pop/ole and a national fall tour currently in the works, Deon and Co. are set to unleash “Anthems For The Restless” to their growing fan base.
Official Dwight d'Eon Web
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EMMY ALCORN (Songwriters Circle)
When Emmy Alcorn decided to record UNVEIL, her debut CD of deeply personal songs, she enlisted her brother John Alcorn as a co-writer and producer/arranger, and brought in top Canadian musicians Rob Piltch, Davide Direnzo, Drew Birston, Rob Gusevs and Coco Love Alcorn. The result is a recording of fresh and seductive pop music, embracing Emmy's alluring vocal warmth and honest expression.
Born in Trinidad and raised on the east coast of Canada and the USA, Emmy grew up in a household filled with music, soaking up the sounds of everyone from Billie Holiday to Anne Murray to Roberta Flack. She studied piano and flute at a young age and received a Silver Medal for Voice from the Toronto Conservatory of Music. Emmy began writing songs at the age of seven, under the tutelage of John C. O'Donnell (Men of the Deeps). Her song Here Tonight was a finalist in the Q104 Songwriting contest.
Emmy has made her mark as a renowned theatre artist, including a decade-long stint as Artistic Director of internationally acclaimed Mulgrave Road Theatre. UNVEIL celebrates a point of return, and movingly discloses the depth of her long-hidden passion and artistry as both creator and performer of genuine, heartfelt music.
Official Emmy Alcorn Web
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THE FED PENNIES
The Fed Pennies have been breaking through the independent music scene since their 2004 inception. Founders Jake Smith and Aaron Farr, previous ECMA winners with Halifax international recording artists The Jimmy Swift Band, decided it was time to branch off on their own in order to explore a new musical direction. Backed with solid melodies, disenchanted lyrics and playfully angry bass lines the group is influenced by various genres of rock including: punk, garage and alternative with musical influences varying from Black Sabbath to the Beatles.
The Fed Pennies consist of Jake Smith (guitar, vocals), John Matthews (bass), Jeff Kingsbury (drums) and Mike Keating (guitar).
“To Your Senses”, the first single launched from The Fed Pennies self titled debut CD created a platform to reach a wider audience and was heard in regular rotation on many radio stations including Halifax’s Q104 and various university and college campuses.
The Fed Pennies have toured heavily throughout Atlantic Canada and Ontario which has led to the support of a large and loyal fan base. Other accomplishments include a Molson Canadian Extreme Band Slam win, a showcase at Canadian Music Week and a 2006 Junofest showcase opening for Inward Eye and Silverstein at the Marquee Club in Halifax NS.
On January 28th, 2008 The Fed Pennies played the show of a lifetime when they opened for Ozzy Osbourne at the Halifax Metro Centre. From the moment the house lights went down the band captivated the audience with a powerhouse set. Fueled with adrenaline after meeting Ozzy backstage the band delivered a high energy performance that warmed up the crowd of thousands for the “Prince of Darkness” himself.
The Fed Pennies have recently released their second full length CD called “Brain Disaster”, a collection of songs inspired by small town trash and rock n roll debauchery. The CD was re-released (including a full bonus EP) on November 24, 2009 on Sound of Pop Records with national distribution in Canada by Fontana North/Universal Music Canada and a worldwide publishing deal through Sound of Pop/ole. The single “air guitar has charted Top 10 on the nationally syndicated East Coast Countdown program and the song Buzzing in My Head was recently chosen by major UK video game developer SEGA for their brand new multi platform game Vancouver 2010 – The Official Game of the Olympics released on January 12, 2010.
Official Fed Pennies Web
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FIRST TO FALL
Bio Soon...
First To Fall MySpace
New Song - First To Fall
Awaken Productions | MySpace Music Videos
THE FLANNELS
The Flannels – A newly-formed band of well-seasoned guys from Clarks Harbour, Nova Scotia. They have all been playing together on-and-off for a lot of years, but finally decided to make a proper band, and get serious about having fun. They are Matt”Bone” Beaulieu (vocals and guitar), Matt Stoddart (lead and rhythm guitar), Matt Swim (drums and vocals), (I know, it’s a lot of Matts), and Wade “Slink” Kenney (bass and vocals). All the guys have spent lots of time playing music , in bands like Catch-22, Latitude, Slink Mob, Pandora’s Box, Shattered Image, and Maybe Sunday, to name a few. The bands musical tastes vary greatly, as shown in their set-list, with covers from anything from Tom Petty to the Headstones and Franz Ferdinand. They bring a great rock vibe, and genuinely love what they are playing and are just happy to be able to make music together.
THE GREEN REFLECTORS
The Green Reflectors are a two piece instrumental rock band based in Bridgewater, NS. Kyle (Guitars) and Aaron (Drums) Furlotte play 60’s flavour rock n’ roll influenced by such artists as Link Wray, The Ventures and The Beatles. Their music includes a few tribute songs and some catchy original numbers. After a two year stint in Halifax studying audio engineering, Kyle returned to Bridgewater determined to start his own band and only had to look as far as his own brother Aaron for a drummer to complete the sound he was searching for. Think tube amps and vintage vinyl records and you’ll have a pretty good idea of what The Green Reflectors are all about.
The Green Reflectors MySpace
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J.D. CLARKE
JD grew up in the rural community of West Gore, nestled in the Rawdon Hills, Nova Scotia. Against this backdrop he learned to play guitar at a young age and continued to pursue his musical dreams from there. Today JD is credited with having five nationally charted singles on country radio. His music has taken him across Canada as well as the US playing to nearly sold out crowds everywhere he goes. His music is naturally familiar and is guaranteed to have you up and dancing. His interactive shows will have you singing along and carrying on with him and his band throughout the entire show.
Official J.D. Clarke Web
Site
JENNY MacDONALD
Jenny MacDonald pushes the boundaries of the term "singer-songwriter", stomping her way through dirty rock songs, swinging her way through jazz tunes, resting in a touching love song, and driving her way through the blues. Blurring the lines between every day life and a world of make-believe, Jenny illustrates a unique lyrical style that has been described as quirky, bold, and unmitigated.
Since the release of her debut album, “Jenny Kissed Me” (2008), Jenny has left her mark through-out the Eastern and Central provinces. Her album garnered attention from radio stations across the country including a feature spot on CBC Radio One's "Atlantic Airwaves".
In September of 2008, Halifax politely held the door for Jenny as she gracefully stepped into its colorful and eclectic music scene. Only a month after finding her home in the city, Jenny has shared the stage with many wonderful talents such as Charlie A'Court, Ian Sherwood, The Hupman Brothers, Christina Martin, Coco Love Alcorn, and even Elizabeth May and in June 2009, Jenny was highlighted as a Music Nova Scotia showcasing artist at their weekly songwriter's event in Halifax.
Versatile and charismatic, Jenny MacDonald performs in a number of venues including theatres, cafes, markets, church halls, outdoor stages, pubs and bars, finding an ideal audience connection in soft-seat theatres, festivals, and intimate listening venues.
Upon graduating from the Nova Scotia Community College's Music Arts and Business program (June, 2010), Jenny will be entering the studio with East Coast Music Award recipient (2009 Blues Album of the Year), Scott Hupman to record her second full-length album.
Official Jenny MacDonald Web
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THE KEATS
From their humble beginnings in an isolated Newfoundland trailer park, Jolene and Sharlene Keats are quickly becoming known as one of Canada's most talented new country acts - The Keats! The duo's debut CD, Good to be Home, is nominated for a 2010 East Coast Music Award for Best Country Recording, while the video for first single, "Give Me a Ring", enjoys feature status on CMT.ca. The Halifax-based twin sisters create instant fans with their powerful two-part harmonies and wonderful blend of country, pop and roots music. Most recently, Jolene and Sharlene Keats traveled to Afghanistan to entertain the troops, and showcased at Toronto's Canadian Music Week, Moncton's Contact East and the 2009 Cavendish Beach Music Festival. Produced by Chris Burke-Gaffney (Chantal Kreviazuk, McMaster & James, Kyle Riabko), Good to be Home emphasizes the twins' classically trained abilities (both graduated with music degrees from Mount Allison University). From mandolin, fiddle, euphonium, guitar, to piano, there isn't anything - or anywhere - the Keats won't play!
Official Keats Web
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KRISTINA TRITES
Born in Saint John, NB, Kristina Trites is a singer-songwriter who grew up on the outskirts of Halifax, NS. She began her career by picking up the guitar when she was 12 and wrote her first song within a week after learning her first few chords. At 13 she began playing bars and music venues around the region.
Since then, Kristina has travelled back and forth from her hometown of Halifax to Toronto, Ontario, working with some of Canada’s finest producers and songwriters, garnered interest both locally and across North America, showcasing at Canadian Music Week, the ECMAs, Juno Fest, as well for record labels and music publishers, and attended countless of song writing workshops and seminars. Kristina’s songs have been played on local radio stations such as Q104fm program Route 104 with Tom Bedell, C100fm and CKBW. She has shared the stage with the likes of Matt Mays, Bedioun Soundclash, Rebekah Higgs, The Northern Pikes, and has also donated her time and talent towards raising funds for Community events and causes with Charity organizations such as Music For Good and Songwave Society. She has even lent her vocals to advertising spots for Honda and Atlantic Superstore.
Kristina co-wrote alongside Andrea Wasse (The Weekend) and Brent Bodrug (Alanis Morrissette), a song titled Hang on Every Word, which was featured on the debut EP for 16 year old Saskatchewan singer, Morgan Mayer, and released as the first single. The song spent 25 weeks on the MediaBase HOT AC Top 200 including 9 weeks in the national HOT AC Top 100, and 8 weeks in the Saskatchewan Top 30. A month after the release it was then charting simultaneously on HOT AC, CHR, and ROCK across Canada.
Currently, Kristina is set to release her debut album, a collection of self penned songs about her turmulous past of coming to terms with single motherhood stemming from an ex relationship at a young age, abandonment, and bouncing back to from the abyss to achieve a life that she is truly proud of. Songs include Nova Scotia, a song Kristina wrote about the glorious winter weather in Nova Scotia. Tiny Seed, about her daughter Lennon, named after the one and only John Lennon, and Comfortably Numb, about the ins and outs of everyday life.
With her powerful raspy voice and strong guitar playing Kristina is set to embark on her first tour of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick extensively this summer and looks forward to sharing her songs to the East Coast and beyond!
Official Kristina Trites MySpace
MIR
Three guys. Eight years. One quarter of a million road miles. Eight countries. Four continents. Six awards. Twenty-eight nominations. Four studio albums. Two Hundred and Twenty Thousand Dollars raised for charity. Seven music videos. Five charting radio singles.
Eighteen new songs. One new album.
This is MIR.
New CD in Canadian stores NOW! Digital tracks available now at
Official Mir Web
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THE PERSUADERS
Halifax, NS is home to The Persuaders, a hot, high-energy, versatile rock and roll band. They own a distinct sound that draws the audience in for an all night party. Hard work and a deep affection for their craft has made them one of the most popular local bands, playing and entertaining in all of the best venues in Metro and have recently been recognized for their efforts by winning THE COAST MAGAZINE 2010 BEST IN MUSIC Readers Poll for best cover band of the year. as This electric outfit is famous for their ability to impress audiences with vigorous performances and a dynamic song list. Formed in 1989 they are still going strong and at the top of their game. In 1998, the band released ‘The Persuaders – Live At The Shore Club’. It was an instant success, selling out immediately. This prompted them to embark on a full-length studio project. In May 2001, they appeared on ‘Halifax Plugged In II’. Produced by 2003 ECMA nominated Denmark Productions, ‘Halifax Plugged In II’ is compilation of ten recording Halifax bands, resulting in the largest record release party this city has ever been host to. In 2003, the band released their first full-length studio album ‘The Persuaders’, debuting at number nine on the local top ten. 2005 was a big year for them. The band travelled up to Sydney to showcase their talents at the ECMA's and hit the stage to rock football fans at the Touchdown Atlantic Festival’s Canadian Light Sideline Party that brought the first ever CFL Grey Cup game to Nova Scotia. They scored a coveted spot opening for a Matt Mays & El Torpedo appearance at the Shore Club in Hubbards, treating the sold out crowd to a healthy dose of spellbinding rock ‘n’ roll. The Persuaders have also shared the stage with other Canadian favourites like Glass Tiger, April Wine. They rang in 2006 with a stunning performance that opened the 16th Annual Tour Tech East Party. The Persuaders served up a rich measure of unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll shimmering and prowling through a rousing set setting the bar for headliners Kim Mitchell and Honeymoon Suite. The Persuaders also entertained a large and enthusiastic crowd at Alderney Landing on the Dartmouth waterfront July 1st setting the stage for Canadian music legends The Stampeders Currently in 2010 The Persuaders are busier than ever, playing shows and working on their latest mix of interesting covers and original material for the planned release of a sophomore studio album. The Persuaders define synergy. On stage, they transcend spectacular. Their energy is infectious. Each member brings something special to the mix. Front man, Maurice Aucoin has an exceptional voice that is both opulent and powerful. He is a top shelf entertainer, modest and magnificent who uses his agile and moving tone to win over his audience. Joey King is a modern, masterful guitar virtuoso, a musical conduit with the Midas touch and dominates a greatness all his own. Jon Matheson, joining the band in 2009, has added even more exciting melodies to an already full guitar sound The Persuaders are known for. He also adds a strong fifth vocal giving the band it's strongest mix of 5 part harmonies to date. The rhythm section is made up of two powerhouse players, Brian Zinck on bass and Rob Francis on drums. Well known local veteran rocker, Brian plays with a smooth and articulate style that is the perfect compliment to Rob’s solid beat, that while dazzling with artistic stick work, is the supreme muscle of the operation and steeped in potent force. The Persuaders are indestructible. Their chemistry is undeniable, their energy unmatched. Their relationship with their audience is ardent and laced with charisma and influence. These are the boys that bring you the ‘backstage boogie in your hometown bar’ and continue to bring home the gold.
Official Persuaders Web
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RISING WATERS
Rising Waters is a band that relies on thought provoking lyrics, and solid musical backings to paint a vivid picture transferred from the pen to the minds of fans.
Their vocalist, Zev Schaller, brings the substance of the words to their full potential, while the band completes the sound to properly frame the vision of the song into a living thing.
Forming in late 2007, Rising Waters has been fighting for their place in the crowded ranks of Nova Scotia musicians, earning a fan base and always moving forward.
RW is currently recording their debut offering titled simply "Here."
Pre-Production is currently underway, and the album will be available for sale at most RW shows this Summer/Fall.
Rising Waters is Zev Schaller - Vocals/Guitar, Guy-Paul Thibault - Lead/Slide, Paul Gallant - Drums, Andrew MacNeill - Bass and Fraser MacNeil - Lead
SHORT NOTICE
Polishing their musical chops for years as one of Nova Scotia's top cover bands, Short Notice is set to shoot to the top of the rock scene in 2010 with their third studio album, (yet untitled).The band's latest album, joins together Shawn Hardy's melodramatic vocal work with unhinged guitar rhythms, Tony Rogers' soothing vocals and primal beats with Jason McCorriston's low end bass riffs to create a collection of rock and roll at its finest. With standout tracks like "When Did Love Become a Crime" , "The Last Chevrolet" and "Sanctuary", look for Short Notice to be a major trailblazer in the rock landscape for years to come with their infectious melodies and inescapable hooks.
Official Short Notice Web
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STONE MARY
Stone Mary’s undeniable rough ‘n tough brand of rock ‘n roll is what gets people in the door, but what keeps them is their gritty rhythms and intoxicating vocal performance. Christine Campbell fronts the band with glorifying confidence and swagger. She wraps audiences around her finger with her voice and drops their jaws with her breath-taking guitar solos. With influences among the band varying from Led Zeppelin and The Black Crowes, to Stevie Ray Vaughan and Guns ‘n Roses, Stone Mary pays homage to their forefathers while maintaining a sound that is soulfully their own.
Each member of the band grew up in different small towns on Prince Edward Island before meeting up in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where they quickly formed and started hitting the streets with their original style of rock ‘n roll, blues, and funk. With Brad Stevens’ irrefutable stage presence and bitchin’ bass licks and “Old Man” Dave holding his own on the kit, the band is dynamically rounded out into an onslaught of rock!
“Sittin’ ‘round, puttin’ down music that’s new”
Official Stone Mary Web
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TELFER
Halifax’s music scene is a burgeoning hot bed of quality blues, funk, and rock, tempered by more than a century of songwriting tradition. It is here that 4 young men draw their inspiration.
Tapping the organic soul of the singer-songwriter, unapologetic funk rock, and the indulgent joy of the jam, TELFER is united by one love – good music. The sound is vibrant then aggressive, pensive then colourful, heavy and then free. Their debut LP, BORN THIS MORNING, invites the listener through the dance, through the crowd, and into the hearts of 4 guys who love to play music.
Official Telfer Web
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THE TROUGH
Local cover band The Trough, are the 2009 winners of the Q104 Battle of the Bands Rock for Dimes – Halifax edition. Former Riverfest solo performer, John Swain has teamed up with JC Reddy and combines their vocal styles to deliver crowd favorites ranging from J Geils and Lynyrd Skynyrd to Bon Jovi and Billy Idol. Backed by veteran guitar player Phil Leefe on lead, Mark Winfield on rhythm guitar, Justin Smith on bass and Shawn Allen on drums, The Trough will have you on your feet rocking to the classics with a few newer hits thrown in for good measure. The Trough also has a few projects in development so don’t be surprised if an original tune explodes from the stage.