Acrpost: A Project of the Pacific Association of Artist Run Centres

Event Description

A little about Sugarblade

Since their debut in 2004, Sugarblade has been playing relentlessly to rave reviews and an ever-growing loyal fan base. It became obvious after only a few live shows that Sugarblade was something special. The band released a 7-song EP entitled "Faux" in July of 2006, which has been selling steadily and exposing them to more and more fans.

Sugarblade considers themselves a rock band with a hint of power-pop. The undeniable chemistry of this foursome stems from creating music together for many years and the friendships that are a result of that bond. Each member comes from a different musical background in terms of influences and styles. Take an instantly recognizable vocalist (Miguel Staunton), with a style that is a blend of Morrisey, Muse, and Peter Gabriel. Add a guitarist (Alec Brietzke), heavily immersed in the hard rock/glam and metal of the 80's, with a incredible knack for melody. Now add a rhythm section consisting of a rock-solid drummer (Kim Urhahn) with an ear for detail, and a bassist (Greg Michalski) with a love for all music dark and angry. Combine those elements with great songwriting, a love for what they do and a sound all their own and you have Sugarblade.

Over the course of their career, Sugarblade has been featured on such programs as Friday Night Revolution, Shaw Express, Hot Shot Bands as well as a number of independent, college, and internet radio stations. The songs “One Step” and “Hallelujah” have both been featured regularly on 99.3 CFOX’s Indie Night In Canada show. “One Step” also had the honor of being the 1 song at Project Opus.com for some time. In 2007, Sugarblade placed in the top 20 of over 600 bands in the annual CFOX Seeds competition.

Sugarblade is currently writing material to record for the follow up to “Faux”.

A little about Mojave

Officially formed in early 2007, Mojave started as a side project from two members of Vancouver hard rock bands, Damsel Fly and Latitude. Having already spent a few years writing songs together, LJ and Paul had an entire album ready to record by the time their bands called it quits. Mojave's sound draws from the bands previous rock background, but is softened with classical elements like viola and violin. Bringing the sound together is an eclectic mix of percussion. At the forefront are female vocals with delicately intertwined acoustic guitars - weaving melodies, telling stories. During the recording of their debut album 'Stories', one session player stood out and completed the sound of the band. Philly, after touring the world with symphony orchestras became Mojave’s full-time lead violin and integral part of the bands live show.

Mojave is focused on creating a green music scene. ‘Stories' avoids packaging by being offered exclusively through digital retailers. All travel made by the band is carbon offset through Tree Canada, and they are members of 1% for the Planet, donating a portion of their profits to environmental charities. They also help raise money for a cause near to their hearts, the Stillpointe Llama Sanctuary where they have adopted Starman and Miss Honey.

2008 was a busy year for the band having toured Canada and the US, hitting venues like the world famous Whisky a Go Go in Hollywood and the House of Blues in Las Vegas. They’ve also licensed their music to several independent film projects and non profit organizations including the Vodafone Australia Foundation. Mojave is currently in pre-production with Dan Achen (City & Colour, Feist) for their sophomore album entitled ‘Crow's Funeral’ which is scheduled for release in spring 2009.