Current Swell, a band based in Victoria, is in the foreground of the “new roots” music front pushing out of Canada’s West Coast.
The band, which visits the Waverley Hotel in Cumberland on Jan. 21, has been around for a few years getting their early recognition around the world as a mainstay in the “surf rock” community.
Their sound continues to develop into a blues and roots feel, gaining even more popularity with their fans while sharing stages with bands such as Xavier Rudd, The Beautiful Girls, Bedouin Soundclash, the Beach Boys and many others.
As the band progressed through three full-length albums and multiple national tours, they gained international attention.
“The online community has always backed us and is a big reason for our success,” said guitarist Dave Lang, of their iTunes and YouTube popularity.
The band’s newest album, Protect Your Own, produced by Todd Simko (producer of Xavier Rudd’s Food in the Belly) is a slight departure from the direction of some of their other albums, but has been well-received nonetheless.
Being a new addition to Canada’s Fontana North label and Japan’s Surf Rock Records is a testament to the band’s growing momentum.
“We believe in what a band stands for, the instruments we hold, our voices, a real song and a good time,” said one band member. Solid songwriting and musicianship are always backed by a solid groove, and that is distinctly Current Swell.
Playing bigger venues and festivals has taken the band to a new level in the past year. Not only larger audiences, but a larger “Swell,” with Western Canadian fans being treated to a sometimes six-piece band. “Kiltlifter” Dave, on the trombone, has been making the rounds onstage, as well as “Ghosty,” who joined after the Swell’s longtime bass player Louis moved along. Scott Stanton and Lang are both on guitars, while Chris Petersen has the beat locked down on drums.
This band pushes the dance floor hard and is clearly one of the rising stars on the music scene based in Western Canada.
Space is limited at the Wave, so get your tickets in advance at the Waverley, Bop City Records and by phone at 250-336-8322.
