The Strumbellas is 7-piece Canadian indie-rock/alt-country band, whose music has been described as alt-country, indie rock, and "folk popgrass".
| The Strumbellas | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ontario, Canada |
| Genres | indie rock, alt-country |
| Years active | 2008–present |
| Labels | None |
| Associated acts | Jay Spectre |
| Website | http://www.thestrumbellas.com |
| Members | |
| Simon Ward, David Ritter, Jon Hembrey, Izzy Ritchie, Darryl James, James Oliver | |
| Past members | |
| Meaghan Bent | |
Contents |
Formed in 2006,[1] the band consists of songwriter Simon Ward on vocals and guitar, David Ritter on vocals and keys, James Oliver on banjo and vocals, Jon Hembrey on lead guitar, mandolin and lap steel, Isabel Ritchie on violin, Darryl James on bass guitar.
The band's self titled EP was released in 2009, garnering positive reviews [2] and mentioned by many different media outlets as a band to watch. Their Southern Souls video by Mitch Fillion received attention from many bloggers[3] and won them an on-going Monday Night residency at Toronto's Cameron House.
2010 was a busy year for the band as they were invited to play landmark venues like Yonge-Dundas Square, The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern and The Peterborough Folk Festival. They are currently working on demo recordings in preparation for a 2011 full-length record release.
"Real characters, each and every one, their lyrics and musical talent 'hit' a note in me that is still playing on in my soul. Their songs are funny and poignant, down to earth and soulful, all with that southern twang that does a body good." - SNAP
""It was only a matter of time before a new generation of local roots-rockers emerged to follow the lead of early-'00s scene giants like Royal City and Cuff the Duke. Self-described "folk popgrass" crew The Strumbellas has risen to that challenge with promising songs like "Underneath A Mountain" and "I Ain’t Tryin’ to Die," from their upcoming debut album." - EYE WEEKELY
"The Strumbellas self-titled debut album should make you, as their first song on the album, Indiana, proclaims “cry just a little bit.” However, it is a cry of joy, not of sorrow. Mentioned by many different media outlets as a band to watch, it is no wonder. Their calming country rock style with original lyrics is a sure surprise." -IMPRINT (Waterloo)