Indie bands such as Arctic Monkeys have shown the UK to be a leader in the indie music scene. Now, however, Canada is at the forefront - we look at the bands involved.

Indie music finds a home in Canada

From the classic early days of the 80’s, the UK has been provider of some of the most iconic bands in the indie genre. Legends such as New Order and Joy Division led the way for bands such as The Chameleons and Puressence, as well as today’s heroes Arctic Monkeys and The Twang. Now, however, the power base has shifted somewhat, and Canada is fast becoming the new breeding ground for the best that indie has to offer.

In the first of a special mini-series, Suite101 looks at some of the bands and artists that are helping to turn Canada from the land of Avril Lavigne and Daniel Powter into a much more respected musical landscape. First up, the wonderful oasis that is Toronto.

Birds Of Wales

Already a perennial favourite here at Suite101, indie folk rockers Birds of Wales are beginning to garner a solid reputation not only in their home city, but further afield as well, particularly in the UK. Led by charismatic frontman Morgan Ross, and with songs such as Cinderella (Has Nothing On You) and Fall of the 49, they’re one of the most popular bands on the Toronto live circuit, and deservedly so.

We Are The Take

With a list of influences that include everything from Neil Young to Kasabian and Joy Division, We Are The Take offer an enticing mix of indie rock with pop sensibilities. Songs such as Montreal Love Song show an ethereal quality to their writing, and the smooth vocal harmonies are the icing on a very tasty cake.

littleSUNDAY

Borne from a love of rock’n’roll at its purest, Toronto rockers littleSUNDAY are currently creating waves across North America and beyond. With strong support from their label Addictive Records/Fontana North/Universal Music Canada, the mix of blistering guitars and powerful vocals should soon be heard on radio stations across the country. Their debut album is due for release on October 23 2007.

Justin Nozuka

Canada’s never been short of notable singer songwriter’s, with Leslie Feist, Ron Sexsmith and Alanis Morissette to name but a few. Toronto artist Justin Nozuka joins that list, bringing his mix of acoustic soul to the party. A prodigious live performer, he’s toured with Crowded House, John Cale and Sam Roberts, and is attracting widescale interest.

Modernboys Moderngirls

One of the bands to look out for on the Toronto indie scene, Modernboys Moderngirls offer an enticing mix of rock, indie pop and a little bit of glam for good measure. Consistently electrifying live, they’re currently preparing their debut album for release later this year. Cited as “a Southern-fried White Stripes” by Chart Attack Magazine, this is a band on the rise.

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