What makes your music stand out from other acts? Can you tell us 3 things about yourself that people might not already know?
My music is hard to pin down, as it jumps from genre to genre. All rooted in a creative approach to sound and expression. As I grow older with my work, I’m trying more and more to draw on things I’ve learned along the way, but also exploring new approaches.
3 things people might not already know, I am a Doctor of Music in music education from the University of Toronto. I did music for 3 seasons of The Tom Green Show on MTV and I also run a not for profit music school in downtown Toronto.
You ‘ve been playing to audiences all over. How has that experience been? Is there an audience or location you like best?
I have always loved to play in Quebec and Europe, where my music is very well-received. That being said, I will be returning to New Orleans this spring for a series of shows and I am excited for those too!
You are based in Canada. What is it like there? Is there a good music scene and would you recommend anything from your region?
Absolutely! I am based outside of Toronto and associate most with that scene. Known lately for its contributions to hip hop, Toronto also has an incredible jazz scene with many folks building up their international presence. Folks like Lina Allemano, Peripheral Vision and Brodie West come to mind.
Who are your inspirations in life and in music?
My dear friend and supporter, the late great Mendelson Joe comes to mind. Both in life and music, Joe remains an inspiration. He lived a productive, loving, and impactful life.
Where are your favorite gig venues and festivals on your bucket list? What is your best memory at a gig as a music artist and as a fan?
Some of my favorite venues in Toronto are Drom Taberna and The Cameron House. I’d love to return to play the Fusion Festival in Germany again, that was a blast to play a few years back!
Tell us about your new album being released by Us Are Busy Bodies. How did this come about, and how would you describe it?
Thrilled to be signed to We Are Busy Bodies and for this new release which was written and recorded during the pandemic. It’s dark, it’s weird, but it’s also a beautiful reflection of my voice as a creative composer and I’m super proud of it. The collaborations that happened were all via file sharing, whether it be me working with Tom Juhas on Killdozer or Brian Poole (Renaldo & The Loaf) on Kiddos & Doggos. It was a weird but fascinating way to create something.
Has Canada been your biggest musical supporter? Are you hoping to make it to the US to support your new album?
Notably Quebec within Canada has treated me well over the years. And of course Europe, where I’ll return with this new record. And yes, in April I’ll bring my music to Louisville and New Orleans, which is exciting!
What is coming next for you? Plans to record and release more music? More touring? Other projects inside or outside of music?
Yes, I am always a few projects ahead of myself, so I’ll be recording again as early as this week! And yes I’m also excited to do some more touring in support of Man Out of Time.
Any connection to the skateboarding world?
Not really! Never got into it. I am getting into golf, though, that’s fun…
Any shout outs to bands or musicians you think we should check out?
Check out Mendelson Joe, he just died, he was a friend of mine and a unique voice in music and paint. Then look at Renaldo & The Loaf, I’m stoked that Renaldo (Brian Poole) sings on my new record. And then there’s The Woodshed Orchestra, led by Dave Clark who also plays drums on my new album. They are an amazing group of friends and musicians who have a prolific body of amazing tunes I know you’ll dig. Hey, thanks a lot for your interest and support!
