The Victoria, BC-based, Caroline Spence Band writes and performs music that is progressive folk-rock, with a twist of new wave, a twist of jazz & blues and a twist of pop. The music captures the romance of a bygone era in a modern fusion of styles. The lyrics are poetic, emotive and clever. The vocals are lush, deep and resonant and feature gothic and eclectic multiple harmonies. The set takes the listener on a journey of stories, told in the best folk-fusion style. The vocals go from light and airy to velvet, passionate and powerful. If you are a lover of good music, with eclectic tastes, you will love this band.
"This music instantly brings up images of the Smiths meets the Cowboy Junkies. It is part sixties folk and part twenty-first century rural meets urban adventurism..." - Chris K., Pro Critic Radio
Caroline Spence Band have consistently entertained audiences and captured their attention and respect by playing music that is lyrically strong and meaningful, with catchy arrangements, put together in an eclectic and interesting mix that has something for every listener. The Caroline Spence Band have an exciting and passionate stage presence and real rapport with each other. Genuine and vulnerable, their unforgettable live performance will resonate in your soul for a long time after. It is no wonder that this band won the Live Performance of the Year Award at the 2006 Island Music Awards.
"...A prismatic and charismatic performer with many unique and important things to say." - Danica Nolan, Indiemark
Caroline's voice is smooth and resonant and will amaze you with her power and range, as well as her emotional and honest delivery. Pauline Edwards (Psaje, Kingbong, the Dreamwave Project, James Kasper
Band) and Adam Basterfield (Permanent Frequency, RedByrd, Old Town Fuzz) add lush harmonies to the mix that are reminicent of October Project and Kate Bush. Intricate interplay between sweet-toned guitar sounds and dreamy violin orchestration create a unique musical tapestry.
"Reminding me of some of the great music that I've heard from the Projekt label...the female vocals/harmonies are especially great...definite ear candy... " - Tim MacAleese, Canadian Rawk Network
The CSB has toured across Canada 3 times and have played numerous festivals. The band have been honoured to share the stage with some of Canada's best folk and independent artists including Ember Swift, Melissa McLelland, Shauna Major, James Kasper, T.Nile, Rae Spoon, Chris Belsito, Carmen Townshend (Shek) and The Gruff. Their music has been played on CBC and college radio. Their 6-song EP, 'hello' was produced by Michael Jack (Jann Arden, Rush, The Trews) and featured the award winning song, 'Hey Gemini' as the lead track. 'Live at the Glenn Lake Inn', their live cd from 2006, captures an unforgettable early performance of the band. The band are currently working on a new studio album set for release in summer 2008, and will be playing several shows and festivals this summer and fall in Canada and the UK. The band will also continue their work to raise funds for worthwhile causes through a number of charity benefit performances and compilations through the year.
"Rusticated soft rock with finely meshed female vocals.. will make listeners think of the tradition- steeped melodies of Kate and Anna McGarrigle and the October Project." - Listen
The band look forward to playing a much more intimate and rootsy show this year, highlighting more of the vocal harmonies and instrumentals that audiences have found so transformative. Their first major performance this year will be opening for Melissa Ferrick (Ani di Franco's opening act this year) at Whistler Pride Week in February.
"What a beautiful voice she has. It has depth..." - Pete McDonald, Peer - Garageband
AWARDS:
Live Performance of the Year 2006 - Island Music Awards
Canadian Musician Magazine Talent Search Winner 2002
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS:
Numerous festivals and tours including:
Whistler WinterPride 2008 - Opening for Melissa Ferrick
Tom Lee Sounds of Summer Showcase 2007
Wyld Lily Gypsy Caravan - National Festival Tour 2007
Invermere Canada Day Festival 2007
Benefit for Animal Rescue - 2007
We are Lost - National Tour 2006
Invermere Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts 2006
Whatshan Festival 2006
Arts Wells Festival 2006
Fernwood Festival 2006
Elemental Tour - National Tour 2005
Invermere Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts 2005
Arts Wells Festival 2005
Caroline Spence - vocals, rhythm guitar
Pauline Edwards - vocals, violin
Adam Basterfield - vocals, guitars, keys