Bands & Activities

The Elwins

Friday, June 17th - Elgin Pod - 7:15pm

Friday, June 17th - Elgin Pod - 8:30pm

Friday, June 17th - Elgin Pod - 9:45pm

Ontario independent pop act The Elwins are a part of a vital practice of D.I.Y. pop eccentrics whose '60s swoon-worthy melodies unabashedly ignore current trends in indie music. This quartet reminds one of exactly what can be very good about rock and roll; simplicity and solid songwriting backed by some naturally talented young musicians makes The Elwins a true gem among other independent artists.

The Elwins recently returned from Seattle where they were writing and recording their debut LP to be released in spring of 2011. Produced by Bill Moriarty (Dr. Dog, Man Man) and Ryan Hadlock (Stephen Malkmus, Metric, Islands, Blonde Redhead), and mixed by L. Stu Young (Prince, Sum-41), this record promises to be the fresh sound the Canadian indie music scene needs.

Matthew Sweeney’s voice, unrefined and appetizing, melds well with the quirky and memorable lyrics, at the same time leading the band with guitar riffs that stay with you long after hearing them. Travis Stokl, a pop savvy drummer, co-writes the songs with Sweeney, bringing his catchy rhythm that undoubtedly leaves toes-a-tapping. The bassist and longtime friend Feurd backs things up with a solid moustache. Most recently joining the band is Nathan Vanderwielen on backup vocals and various instruments.

The Elwins' charm and blissful attitude is a unique addition to the Canadian music scene. Their self-titled EP has sold a multitude of copies, garnering North American and European audiences to follow. Time spent with the boys can range from a peculiar conversation about dynamics and chord structures, to a spontaneous improvised performance, notably watching them switch instruments effortlessly. They've played at festivals such as Halifax Pop Explosion, Canadian Music Week. This past March brought their American debut, playing shows in New York City and Austin during SXSW. They have shared the stage with friends Toyko Police Club as well as The Coast, Maylee Todd, The Bicycles and Ruby Coast.

The Elwins distinctive sound and natural aptitude for writing upbeat and luminous pop tunes have promptly launched them as a clear-cut contender in the Canadian music scene. Their forthcoming album promises to take everything loved about the EP and live performances and turns things up to 10, taking it beyond anything we’ve heard from them thus far. They are currently performing their high-energy shows locally and around the country. You can catch their quirky sense of humour on their video blogs and posts, where they show their love of cats, sewing, paisley and of course, music.

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