Walk Off The Earth’s brilliant “five-people-playing-one-guitar” interpretation of Gotye’s Somebody That I Used To Know recently exploded on YouTube, garnering over 35 million views in less than two weeks.
That massive fan response quickly drew attention to their collection of innovative songs.
Two of those fans just happened to be the daughters of Vancouver Island MusicFest’s artistic director Doug Cox.
“It’s a very rare thing to have two of my kids agree on something,” joked Cox, “plus the fact that they have never asked me to book a specific band before, so I knew there was something special
about this group.”
New fans from around the world have fallen in love with the band’s organic, independent, sincere and honest original songwriting. For the past five years, Walk Off The Earth has built a massive following of dedicated fans through their unique and heartwarming approach to songwriting and constant, open interaction with everyone their music touches.
“I’m a fan,” said Cox, “I was the minute I checked them out. Having them on our stage this summer is very cool. And booking them has helped my ‘cool’ with my kids, too.”
The chemistry between the members of Walk Off The Earth is undeniable.
Marshall, Sarah and Gianni’s individual vocal styles mesh seamlessly with Taylor’s haunting harmonies while soaring over epic melodic arrangements held together by Joel Cassady’s driving percussion work.
Their independent spirit, unstoppable work ethic and awe-inspiring creativity have catapulted Walk Off The Earth into the
international spotlight.
Walk Off the Earth has also received a 2013 Juno nomination for Breakthrough Group of the Year. At the time of this release, WOTE’s newest video release Red Hands had nearly three million views on YouTube. Their full-length album will be released the third week of March.
The Vancouver Island MusicFest 2013 takes place July 12 to 14 at the Comox Valley Exhibition Grounds. For tickets, artist announcements and festival information, go to www.islandmusicfest.com.
— Vancouver Island MusicFest
