Bend Sinister
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Bend Sinister

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | INDIE

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | INDIE
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"Bend Sinister"

“They just destroyed the bathroom, with pipes spraying water everywhere and everything.” The key word in that sentence is ‘they.’ Dan Moxon wants to go on record to say they had nothing to do with vandalising the Commodore Ballroom. “To this day it remains a mystery, and everyone was blaming us because we came in third.”

It was the final event in the Peak Performance Project. You know the year — Vancouver rock veterans Bend Sinister brought down the house at the Commodore with Moxon at the helm, only to be awarded third place, jarring a bewildered crowd into a flurry of booing and jeering while We Are The City were crowned the temporary princes of Vancouver music.

“They were saying ‘You guys came in third and you guys are rock ‘n’ roll,’” said Moxon. The accusation flusters the thoughtful, soft-spoken Moxon. His coffee shop demeanor belies the magnetism of a rock frontman, his attitude humble for one of the most intimidating vocal talents the province has produced.

Coming off an accomplished EP outing with Howard Redekopp, Bend Sinister is back with On My Mind, a new EP that brings everything back to the hard rock roots they made their name on. Free from prying motivations and management, the band is doing exactly what they want. “This new album is a bit more outside the box. Nobody is telling us what to do,” said Moxon.

As usual, Vancouver music moves in a direction and Bend Sinister does what they do best. The Xerox machines in this town warm with every band trying to out-cool each other, On My Mind finds no vulnerability in showing a little emotion and songwriting flair. It’s rock and roll for a city that desperately needs it. - Beatroute


"Bend Sinister"

“They just destroyed the bathroom, with pipes spraying water everywhere and everything.” The key word in that sentence is ‘they.’ Dan Moxon wants to go on record to say they had nothing to do with vandalising the Commodore Ballroom. “To this day it remains a mystery, and everyone was blaming us because we came in third.”

It was the final event in the Peak Performance Project. You know the year — Vancouver rock veterans Bend Sinister brought down the house at the Commodore with Moxon at the helm, only to be awarded third place, jarring a bewildered crowd into a flurry of booing and jeering while We Are The City were crowned the temporary princes of Vancouver music.

“They were saying ‘You guys came in third and you guys are rock ‘n’ roll,’” said Moxon. The accusation flusters the thoughtful, soft-spoken Moxon. His coffee shop demeanor belies the magnetism of a rock frontman, his attitude humble for one of the most intimidating vocal talents the province has produced.

Coming off an accomplished EP outing with Howard Redekopp, Bend Sinister is back with On My Mind, a new EP that brings everything back to the hard rock roots they made their name on. Free from prying motivations and management, the band is doing exactly what they want. “This new album is a bit more outside the box. Nobody is telling us what to do,” said Moxon.

As usual, Vancouver music moves in a direction and Bend Sinister does what they do best. The Xerox machines in this town warm with every band trying to out-cool each other, On My Mind finds no vulnerability in showing a little emotion and songwriting flair. It’s rock and roll for a city that desperately needs it. - Beatroute


"Bend Sinister says to hell with good taste on On My Mind"



On My Mind (File Under: Music)

Dan Moxon’s long, messy locks and shaggy caveman beard make the Bend Sinister frontman look like the prototypical Canadian rocker. In his case, however, appearances are deceiving. The band’s latest EP, On My Mind, is flashy and flamboyant, as the piano-playing Moxon and his bandmates delve into intricate prog and unrepentantly hooky pop. It’s not exactly what you’d expect from a songwriter who is pictured wearing a plaid flannel shirt in the artwork of that same CD.

Opener “Give It a Rest” finds the band riding a giddy stylistic roller coaster that begins with tinkling piano and gives way to hard-rocking guitar riffs and theatrical crescendos. The track sounds like it could have been pulled from a Broadway production, and Moxon’s singing reinforces these musical-theatre comparisons. He is equally adept at crooning and banshee wails, and he shows off his massive vocal range with note-perfect accuracy. Good taste be damned, and thank God for that.

The other four songs of On My Mind are slightly less hyperactive, but after that first track, what wouldn’t be? “Got You on My Mind” is a sunnily romantic pop romp that would sit comfortably on a playlist with “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates, while five-and-a-half-minute closer “The Road Divided” is a dark-and-stormy rocker that culminates in a triumphant finale.

The best part? On My Mind is reportedly a primer for a full-length that’s due later this year, so if we’re lucky, that LP will be even more excessive and ambitious. - The Georgia Straight


"Bend Sinister says to hell with good taste on On My Mind"



On My Mind (File Under: Music)

Dan Moxon’s long, messy locks and shaggy caveman beard make the Bend Sinister frontman look like the prototypical Canadian rocker. In his case, however, appearances are deceiving. The band’s latest EP, On My Mind, is flashy and flamboyant, as the piano-playing Moxon and his bandmates delve into intricate prog and unrepentantly hooky pop. It’s not exactly what you’d expect from a songwriter who is pictured wearing a plaid flannel shirt in the artwork of that same CD.

Opener “Give It a Rest” finds the band riding a giddy stylistic roller coaster that begins with tinkling piano and gives way to hard-rocking guitar riffs and theatrical crescendos. The track sounds like it could have been pulled from a Broadway production, and Moxon’s singing reinforces these musical-theatre comparisons. He is equally adept at crooning and banshee wails, and he shows off his massive vocal range with note-perfect accuracy. Good taste be damned, and thank God for that.

The other four songs of On My Mind are slightly less hyperactive, but after that first track, what wouldn’t be? “Got You on My Mind” is a sunnily romantic pop romp that would sit comfortably on a playlist with “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates, while five-and-a-half-minute closer “The Road Divided” is a dark-and-stormy rocker that culminates in a triumphant finale.

The best part? On My Mind is reportedly a primer for a full-length that’s due later this year, so if we’re lucky, that LP will be even more excessive and ambitious. - The Georgia Straight


"Bend Sinister"

"I always loved the ritual of getting a record," Joseph Blood recalls. "With your headphones on, you just spend the whole record analyzing the artwork and reading the liner notes. That's the thing I loved as a kid, and it's great that that's starting to come back, and that bands can start doing that thing again."


His own band included: the pressing of LPs is transitioning well from nostalgic motion to the general way of things, and it's a return that Blood and Bend Sinister, the band he plays guitar for, are soon to embrace for the first time. Sinister's releasing its first pressed LP in a few months, a rare full-length from a band that more frequently puts out EPs like On My Mind, the short release it's currently touring behind as a teaser for the album to come.


"We're classically minded: we like to think of it as a 'record.' It's coming out on vinyl, so we like to spend a lot of time tinkering with transitions between songs," Blood explains. "The EP is just ... we had all this extra music that wasn't going to make the record, but we can put it out anyways, and people can still get it."

Not that any of it sounds like discarded ideas: like Supertramp trying to pull a fast one on Cheap Trick, Bend Sinister sounds like some lost member of vinyl's original era, not part of a younger resurgence. It realizes big, anthemic, keyboard-driven pop songs, the appeal of which Blood attributes to what happens as a culmination of each of its member's ideas together.


"It's a mix of our influences. As musicians outside of Bend Sinister we all play a variety of music. It runs the gamut, but [with] Bend Sinister, that's kind of what we do, and we like it. It's a charge to play really loud, extravagant rock 'n' roll songs. I guess that's just what Bend Sinister does. It's not like it's the only thing we do as artists, I suppose, but we're kind of old school: we like Cheap Trick, we like those big anthemic songs that people can get a little crazy to.


"It's not really in vogue right now," he admits. "I think part of it is it's difficult to put a band together that can do that. That's why you see a lot of people playing with looping machines, or duos, 'cause it's just financially easier. But it's fun though, when you see a band that just does that". - VUE Weekly


"Bend Sinister"

"I always loved the ritual of getting a record," Joseph Blood recalls. "With your headphones on, you just spend the whole record analyzing the artwork and reading the liner notes. That's the thing I loved as a kid, and it's great that that's starting to come back, and that bands can start doing that thing again."


His own band included: the pressing of LPs is transitioning well from nostalgic motion to the general way of things, and it's a return that Blood and Bend Sinister, the band he plays guitar for, are soon to embrace for the first time. Sinister's releasing its first pressed LP in a few months, a rare full-length from a band that more frequently puts out EPs like On My Mind, the short release it's currently touring behind as a teaser for the album to come.


"We're classically minded: we like to think of it as a 'record.' It's coming out on vinyl, so we like to spend a lot of time tinkering with transitions between songs," Blood explains. "The EP is just ... we had all this extra music that wasn't going to make the record, but we can put it out anyways, and people can still get it."

Not that any of it sounds like discarded ideas: like Supertramp trying to pull a fast one on Cheap Trick, Bend Sinister sounds like some lost member of vinyl's original era, not part of a younger resurgence. It realizes big, anthemic, keyboard-driven pop songs, the appeal of which Blood attributes to what happens as a culmination of each of its member's ideas together.


"It's a mix of our influences. As musicians outside of Bend Sinister we all play a variety of music. It runs the gamut, but [with] Bend Sinister, that's kind of what we do, and we like it. It's a charge to play really loud, extravagant rock 'n' roll songs. I guess that's just what Bend Sinister does. It's not like it's the only thing we do as artists, I suppose, but we're kind of old school: we like Cheap Trick, we like those big anthemic songs that people can get a little crazy to.


"It's not really in vogue right now," he admits. "I think part of it is it's difficult to put a band together that can do that. That's why you see a lot of people playing with looping machines, or duos, 'cause it's just financially easier. But it's fun though, when you see a band that just does that". - VUE Weekly


"Buying Shots for Bend Sinister at Cherry Cola’s"

While Catherine was covering the Junction’s CD release at the Horseshoe, I knew I needed to see the EP I’ve had on constant repeat for the past two weeks brought to life, so I instead headed to Cherry Cola’s for Bend Sinister. While there aren’t any pictures, here’s a run-down of the sweat-fest that ensued:

Cherry Cola’s isn’t your typical venue. With no opener, Bend Sinister took the stage promptly at 10:30pm. And Dan Moxon (vocals, keys), Joseph Blood (guitar, vocals), Matt Rhode (bass) and Jason Dana (drums) immediately proceeded to rock the socks off the jam-packed crowd.

Bend Sinister are a band that you get tired just watching – sweat floods out of them as they pour their heart and soul into the performance. And let’s be honest, it’s impossible to stand still to their piano-driven The entire band was on fire from the very first song, and this level of energy remained as they fired off hit after hit, including the loud and heavy “CT,” straight-up soulful headbanger “Jimmy Brown,” ballad “Don’t Let Us Bring You Down” and the pounding harmonic anthem “Things Will Get Better.” It wasn’t until halfway through their set when we were finally treated to some of the new material off On My Mind: dance single “Give It A Rest” and a revved up “Got You On My Mind,” that had a lot more punch than the light-hearted recorded version, while still maintaining the sweet back-up “ooooh’s.”

We also got a preview of two new songs that will be on their forth-coming full length release, including a track called “Hot Blooded Man,” which may have raised the intensity bar even higher than they’d previously set it. With the band originally forming in 2000, they released their first album in 2002; ten years later, while the line-up has changed, Moxon is still going strong. From this little taste, it’s obvious that Bend Sinister aren’t slowing down, they are actually gaining momentum with each record they put out.

The band came back for an immediate encore, offering the crowd “The Road Divided” the closing song off the new EP. Written about a store in Kelowna that was forced to close after a new highway diverted all traffic away from it, the lyrics now make painful sense. The anguish in Moxon’s voice was raw as he pounded out sharp staccato keys while belting out “soon you’ll be gone, now that your road leads nowhere.” This song shows a different side to Bend Sinister and it was an emotional way to end the night.

I had the privilege of standing next to Ken Beattie of Killbeat Music, and the pleasure of watching him rock out to Bend Sinister’s entire set. It was really special to see him so excited and into a band he represents. It also reaffirms that the best people in the music industry are those that are in it for the right reasons – because they are music lovers to the very core of their being.

Afterwards, “Buying Shots For” somehow turned into “Doing Shots With” Bend Sinister. That’s what happens when you let a band member place the order at the bar! While I wasn’t able to stick around for their second “secret” set at 1am, I’m sure it was nothing short of fantastic – it was fuelled by jagerbombs after all. With their LP dropping in July, hopefully it won’t be long of a wait to see them again. Be sure to come out – and buy them a shot! - Buying Shots For Bands


"Buying Shots for Bend Sinister at Cherry Cola’s"

While Catherine was covering the Junction’s CD release at the Horseshoe, I knew I needed to see the EP I’ve had on constant repeat for the past two weeks brought to life, so I instead headed to Cherry Cola’s for Bend Sinister. While there aren’t any pictures, here’s a run-down of the sweat-fest that ensued:

Cherry Cola’s isn’t your typical venue. With no opener, Bend Sinister took the stage promptly at 10:30pm. And Dan Moxon (vocals, keys), Joseph Blood (guitar, vocals), Matt Rhode (bass) and Jason Dana (drums) immediately proceeded to rock the socks off the jam-packed crowd.

Bend Sinister are a band that you get tired just watching – sweat floods out of them as they pour their heart and soul into the performance. And let’s be honest, it’s impossible to stand still to their piano-driven The entire band was on fire from the very first song, and this level of energy remained as they fired off hit after hit, including the loud and heavy “CT,” straight-up soulful headbanger “Jimmy Brown,” ballad “Don’t Let Us Bring You Down” and the pounding harmonic anthem “Things Will Get Better.” It wasn’t until halfway through their set when we were finally treated to some of the new material off On My Mind: dance single “Give It A Rest” and a revved up “Got You On My Mind,” that had a lot more punch than the light-hearted recorded version, while still maintaining the sweet back-up “ooooh’s.”

We also got a preview of two new songs that will be on their forth-coming full length release, including a track called “Hot Blooded Man,” which may have raised the intensity bar even higher than they’d previously set it. With the band originally forming in 2000, they released their first album in 2002; ten years later, while the line-up has changed, Moxon is still going strong. From this little taste, it’s obvious that Bend Sinister aren’t slowing down, they are actually gaining momentum with each record they put out.

The band came back for an immediate encore, offering the crowd “The Road Divided” the closing song off the new EP. Written about a store in Kelowna that was forced to close after a new highway diverted all traffic away from it, the lyrics now make painful sense. The anguish in Moxon’s voice was raw as he pounded out sharp staccato keys while belting out “soon you’ll be gone, now that your road leads nowhere.” This song shows a different side to Bend Sinister and it was an emotional way to end the night.

I had the privilege of standing next to Ken Beattie of Killbeat Music, and the pleasure of watching him rock out to Bend Sinister’s entire set. It was really special to see him so excited and into a band he represents. It also reaffirms that the best people in the music industry are those that are in it for the right reasons – because they are music lovers to the very core of their being.

Afterwards, “Buying Shots For” somehow turned into “Doing Shots With” Bend Sinister. That’s what happens when you let a band member place the order at the bar! While I wasn’t able to stick around for their second “secret” set at 1am, I’m sure it was nothing short of fantastic – it was fuelled by jagerbombs after all. With their LP dropping in July, hopefully it won’t be long of a wait to see them again. Be sure to come out – and buy them a shot! - Buying Shots For Bands


"NEWS: Bend Sinister Announce The March 6th Release Of "On My Mind""

Bend Sinister seem to almost revel in their ability to confound listeners and industry types throughout Canada. They churn out blisteringly fast prog influenced songs, followed by chirpy and cheerful Beach Boys soaked melodies. They are the kind of musicians who have both Hall and Oates and Iron Maiden in their vinyl collections and are not afraid to admit any influence or try any new sound.

At the heart of Bend Sinister sits vocalist and keyboard player Dan Moxon. His soft spoken and warm demeanour belie the frenetic stage antics and vocal gymnastics that have made him one of the most unforgettable front men in the Canadian indie scene. His song writing draws from a wealth of influences and he is as equally at home softly singing over a piano ballad as he is wailing over crushing drums and guitars. Not to be outshined however, the rest of the band is just as dynamic. If Moxon is the heart, drummer Jason Dana is the gut. Channelling the best beats of Thin Lizzy and Led Zeppelin, Dana propels the band through their live set like a twin-engine jet. At the flanks are guitar wizard Joseph Blood and newcomer, bassist Matt Rhode.

For the last three years, Bend Sinister have been a tornado of activity on the Canadian music scene. Since 2008 they have released two EP’s and one full length album. Their most recent single, “Things Will Get Better” (produced by Howard Redekopp), was added to commercial radio stations across Canada and reached number 2 on the CBC radio 3 chart. They have been invited to perform at a plethora of festivals across Canada, including: Envol at Macadam in Quebec City, POP Montreal, Sled Island in Calgary, Olio Festival in Vancouver and Live at Squamish; moreover, Bend Sinister have acted as tour support for such bands as METRIC, Hot Hot Heat, Dragonette, Born Ruffians, Minus the Bear and We are Scientists.

Produced by Shawn Cole (You Say Party!; Yukon Blonde) at Fader Master and Mushroom studios, On My Mind is an EP from a band that clearly knows that their capabilities as players and songwriters are limitless. In the traditional anthemic nature that is Bend Sinister, On My Mind commands listeners to recall a time when songs were crafted and not manufactured. While the track “Give It A Rest” breathes new life into the group's clearly defined sound, the rest of the EP acts as a teaser for more great things to come - NOISOGRAPHY


"NEWS: Bend Sinister Announce The March 6th Release Of "On My Mind""

Bend Sinister seem to almost revel in their ability to confound listeners and industry types throughout Canada. They churn out blisteringly fast prog influenced songs, followed by chirpy and cheerful Beach Boys soaked melodies. They are the kind of musicians who have both Hall and Oates and Iron Maiden in their vinyl collections and are not afraid to admit any influence or try any new sound.

At the heart of Bend Sinister sits vocalist and keyboard player Dan Moxon. His soft spoken and warm demeanour belie the frenetic stage antics and vocal gymnastics that have made him one of the most unforgettable front men in the Canadian indie scene. His song writing draws from a wealth of influences and he is as equally at home softly singing over a piano ballad as he is wailing over crushing drums and guitars. Not to be outshined however, the rest of the band is just as dynamic. If Moxon is the heart, drummer Jason Dana is the gut. Channelling the best beats of Thin Lizzy and Led Zeppelin, Dana propels the band through their live set like a twin-engine jet. At the flanks are guitar wizard Joseph Blood and newcomer, bassist Matt Rhode.

For the last three years, Bend Sinister have been a tornado of activity on the Canadian music scene. Since 2008 they have released two EP’s and one full length album. Their most recent single, “Things Will Get Better” (produced by Howard Redekopp), was added to commercial radio stations across Canada and reached number 2 on the CBC radio 3 chart. They have been invited to perform at a plethora of festivals across Canada, including: Envol at Macadam in Quebec City, POP Montreal, Sled Island in Calgary, Olio Festival in Vancouver and Live at Squamish; moreover, Bend Sinister have acted as tour support for such bands as METRIC, Hot Hot Heat, Dragonette, Born Ruffians, Minus the Bear and We are Scientists.

Produced by Shawn Cole (You Say Party!; Yukon Blonde) at Fader Master and Mushroom studios, On My Mind is an EP from a band that clearly knows that their capabilities as players and songwriters are limitless. In the traditional anthemic nature that is Bend Sinister, On My Mind commands listeners to recall a time when songs were crafted and not manufactured. While the track “Give It A Rest” breathes new life into the group's clearly defined sound, the rest of the EP acts as a teaser for more great things to come - NOISOGRAPHY


"Bend Sinister - On My Mind"

How you feel about Bend Sinister will depend on your tolerance for anthems. On their new five-song EP, the Vancouver four-piece completely blows the roof off the place, and in the best way possible. We’re not talking formulaic radio rock. The smart songs at times verge on prog rock (check out the jaw-dropping drumming on The Road Divided, for example), and are fuelled more by elegant piano or woozy organ than big fuzz guitars (though we get those, too).

But it’s singer/keyboardist Dan Moxon who will leave your jaw on the floor. His burly image and shy demeanour belie hugely emotional, dynamic and soulful vocals that evoke a powerhouse James Mercer (or, dare I say, Adam Levine). They’re energetic and mighty – and his memorable melodies sail through the songs’ tornado-like twists and turns in a blink. It’s rare, startling and appreciated when an indie rock singer lays himself on the line so completely. - NOW Magazine


"Bend Sinister - On My Mind"

How you feel about Bend Sinister will depend on your tolerance for anthems. On their new five-song EP, the Vancouver four-piece completely blows the roof off the place, and in the best way possible. We’re not talking formulaic radio rock. The smart songs at times verge on prog rock (check out the jaw-dropping drumming on The Road Divided, for example), and are fuelled more by elegant piano or woozy organ than big fuzz guitars (though we get those, too).

But it’s singer/keyboardist Dan Moxon who will leave your jaw on the floor. His burly image and shy demeanour belie hugely emotional, dynamic and soulful vocals that evoke a powerhouse James Mercer (or, dare I say, Adam Levine). They’re energetic and mighty – and his memorable melodies sail through the songs’ tornado-like twists and turns in a blink. It’s rare, startling and appreciated when an indie rock singer lays himself on the line so completely. - NOW Magazine


"Garage CD of the week"

Although Bend Sinister is driven by pianist Dan Moxon, the title track of the band’s EP, On My Mind, clips along jauntily like Cheap Trick at its most upbeat.

There’s a kind of appealing power-pop melodic sense, and a cool guitar solo by James Blood (aka Joseph Martin), filling the Cheap Trick guitar quotient.

Moxon seems to get more ambitious with each release. “I’m The One Leaving You” has a sinuous, almost bluesy arrangement and complex changes while Moxon airs adventurous vocals and the band cuts loose on “The Road Divided,” which approaches prog-rock. The band never sacrifices melody for a wanking technique, though. - The Province


"Garage CD of the week"

Although Bend Sinister is driven by pianist Dan Moxon, the title track of the band’s EP, On My Mind, clips along jauntily like Cheap Trick at its most upbeat.

There’s a kind of appealing power-pop melodic sense, and a cool guitar solo by James Blood (aka Joseph Martin), filling the Cheap Trick guitar quotient.

Moxon seems to get more ambitious with each release. “I’m The One Leaving You” has a sinuous, almost bluesy arrangement and complex changes while Moxon airs adventurous vocals and the band cuts loose on “The Road Divided,” which approaches prog-rock. The band never sacrifices melody for a wanking technique, though. - The Province


"Review "On My Mind" - Bend Sinister"

Review- “On My Mind”- Bend Sinister
Posted on March 5, 2012 by glasspaperweight

reviewed by Michael Thomas

I should start off this review by mentioning that Bend Sinister are probably one of the most criminally underrated bands in all of Canada. Their level of musicianship is top-notch, yet they haven’t quite gotten huge at this point.

It’s been four whole years since their 2008 album Stories of Brothers, Tales Of Lovers was released, and since then they released the EP Spring Romance in 2010. The band is now teasing the public with this new EP, On My Mind, with a hint that we might finally get a proper follow-up album.

Once again, Bend Sinister does not disappoint. One only needs to listen to one of the first two tracks on this EP to know what this band is all about. The EP is infectious, meticulous and a great new calling card for this ridiculously talented band.

“Give It A Rest” is the first single from the EP, and like Bend Sinister’s previous recordings, the first track on the album is exceedingly attention-grabbing. What starts with a simple piano riff launches into a full-band number quickly. By the time it reaches its chorus you’ll be singing along as leader Dan Moxon sings “So give it a rest/So give it a rest now man.”

“Got On You My Mind” isn’t far behind in terms of catchiness. The driving piano riff complemented by drums and guitar, plus the call and response between Moxon and other band members in the verse makes for fantastic listening.

Middle track “I’m the One Leaving You” starts off as a more subdued track that picks up more steam as the chorus comes in, at which point it becomes an energetic rock song. The following track “Please Say” starts with piano at the beginning, making the song sound almost whimsical before it once again becomes a more rock-oriented song.

The EP ends with the track “The Road Divided.” The song runs a little longer than the other tracks and is actually slower-paced as well. Though an admirable song, I couldn’t connect with this song as readily as the others.

That being said, On My Mind is still highly recommended. If this EP doesn’t get the band the recognition it deserves, here’s hoping their next recording (a full-length, please?) will do just that.

The EP is out tomorrow, March 6. Check out the band’s Facebook page for details on how you can get the EP. - Gray Owl Point


"Review "On My Mind" - Bend Sinister"

Review- “On My Mind”- Bend Sinister
Posted on March 5, 2012 by glasspaperweight

reviewed by Michael Thomas

I should start off this review by mentioning that Bend Sinister are probably one of the most criminally underrated bands in all of Canada. Their level of musicianship is top-notch, yet they haven’t quite gotten huge at this point.

It’s been four whole years since their 2008 album Stories of Brothers, Tales Of Lovers was released, and since then they released the EP Spring Romance in 2010. The band is now teasing the public with this new EP, On My Mind, with a hint that we might finally get a proper follow-up album.

Once again, Bend Sinister does not disappoint. One only needs to listen to one of the first two tracks on this EP to know what this band is all about. The EP is infectious, meticulous and a great new calling card for this ridiculously talented band.

“Give It A Rest” is the first single from the EP, and like Bend Sinister’s previous recordings, the first track on the album is exceedingly attention-grabbing. What starts with a simple piano riff launches into a full-band number quickly. By the time it reaches its chorus you’ll be singing along as leader Dan Moxon sings “So give it a rest/So give it a rest now man.”

“Got On You My Mind” isn’t far behind in terms of catchiness. The driving piano riff complemented by drums and guitar, plus the call and response between Moxon and other band members in the verse makes for fantastic listening.

Middle track “I’m the One Leaving You” starts off as a more subdued track that picks up more steam as the chorus comes in, at which point it becomes an energetic rock song. The following track “Please Say” starts with piano at the beginning, making the song sound almost whimsical before it once again becomes a more rock-oriented song.

The EP ends with the track “The Road Divided.” The song runs a little longer than the other tracks and is actually slower-paced as well. Though an admirable song, I couldn’t connect with this song as readily as the others.

That being said, On My Mind is still highly recommended. If this EP doesn’t get the band the recognition it deserves, here’s hoping their next recording (a full-length, please?) will do just that.

The EP is out tomorrow, March 6. Check out the band’s Facebook page for details on how you can get the EP. - Gray Owl Point


"Vancouver's Bend Sinister to release Small Fame"


Music, Music Releases — June 5, 2012 12:30 pm
Vancouver’s Bend Sinister to Release Small Fame
Posted by {C} Magazine
BAND outdoor building VERTICLE
Left to right:
Joseph Martin (Guitar)
Jason Dana (Drums)
Matt Rhode (Bass)
Daniel Moxon (Vocals, Keys, Organ)
Photo Credit: Candice Webster











Vancouver’s Bend Sinister to Release Small Fame on July 10, 2012
U.S. Tour In The Works for Late Summer/Early Fall 2012
Since the release of their last full length, 2008’s Stories of Lovers, Tales of Lovers, fans and press have been wondering when Vancouver’s Bend Sinister (Dan Moxon, Jason Dana, Matt Rhode, Joseph Blood) will release another full album. They‘ve teased their audiences with the release of the EP On My Mind, which received great reviews, but fans longed for more. Well, they won’t have to wait much longer. The band heard your calls and on July 10, they will release their first full-length album in 4 years – Small Fame – via File Under Music. Produced by Shawn Cole (You Say Party!, Yukon Blonde), the 12-track album was recorded at Fader Master and Mushroom Studios in Vancouver. Two of the albums tracks come from their prior EP (“Give It a Rest” and “Got You on My Mind”), while the other ten tracks are brand new. All songs carry out the band’s traditional brand of classic rock influenced song writing while maintaining a uniquely modern twist. The first single off the new album will be “One Shot” and will impact at Triple A on June 25, 2012. The band will spend the summer touring throughout Canada and plan to grace audiences in America with their music in late summer, early fall.
- C Magazine


"Vancouver's Bend Sinister to release Small Fame"


Music, Music Releases — June 5, 2012 12:30 pm
Vancouver’s Bend Sinister to Release Small Fame
Posted by {C} Magazine
BAND outdoor building VERTICLE
Left to right:
Joseph Martin (Guitar)
Jason Dana (Drums)
Matt Rhode (Bass)
Daniel Moxon (Vocals, Keys, Organ)
Photo Credit: Candice Webster











Vancouver’s Bend Sinister to Release Small Fame on July 10, 2012
U.S. Tour In The Works for Late Summer/Early Fall 2012
Since the release of their last full length, 2008’s Stories of Lovers, Tales of Lovers, fans and press have been wondering when Vancouver’s Bend Sinister (Dan Moxon, Jason Dana, Matt Rhode, Joseph Blood) will release another full album. They‘ve teased their audiences with the release of the EP On My Mind, which received great reviews, but fans longed for more. Well, they won’t have to wait much longer. The band heard your calls and on July 10, they will release their first full-length album in 4 years – Small Fame – via File Under Music. Produced by Shawn Cole (You Say Party!, Yukon Blonde), the 12-track album was recorded at Fader Master and Mushroom Studios in Vancouver. Two of the albums tracks come from their prior EP (“Give It a Rest” and “Got You on My Mind”), while the other ten tracks are brand new. All songs carry out the band’s traditional brand of classic rock influenced song writing while maintaining a uniquely modern twist. The first single off the new album will be “One Shot” and will impact at Triple A on June 25, 2012. The band will spend the summer touring throughout Canada and plan to grace audiences in America with their music in late summer, early fall.
- C Magazine


"Upcoming Release: BEND SINISTER – Small Fame"

We last caught up with Vancouver prog-pop/rock quartet BEND SINISTER on their Toronto stop-over at Cherry Cola’s back in March just ahead of CMW as they were making the rounds in support of their latest EP On My Mind

The four piece are now announcing the upcoming release of their third full-length LP Small Fame (fourth if you count their self-released instrumental debut), due out July 10th via File Under: Music.

Produced by long-time band collaborator Shawn Cole (YOU SAY PARTY!, YUKON BLONDE) at Fader Master and Mushroom Studios, Small Fame is set to continue their craft of classic arena-rock influenced anthems with a contemporary edge – you can check out the first single off the release She Don’t Give Up in the embed below.

The band will be officially releasing Small Fame at Vancouver’s The Venue on July 19th with FIELDS OF GREEN and YOUNG PACIFIC in tow – alongside a few other sporatic west coast live show offerings (see below).

Take it from those in the know: if you haven’t ever seen BEND SINISTER live, do so immediately. - The Indie Machine


"Upcoming Release: BEND SINISTER – Small Fame"

We last caught up with Vancouver prog-pop/rock quartet BEND SINISTER on their Toronto stop-over at Cherry Cola’s back in March just ahead of CMW as they were making the rounds in support of their latest EP On My Mind

The four piece are now announcing the upcoming release of their third full-length LP Small Fame (fourth if you count their self-released instrumental debut), due out July 10th via File Under: Music.

Produced by long-time band collaborator Shawn Cole (YOU SAY PARTY!, YUKON BLONDE) at Fader Master and Mushroom Studios, Small Fame is set to continue their craft of classic arena-rock influenced anthems with a contemporary edge – you can check out the first single off the release She Don’t Give Up in the embed below.

The band will be officially releasing Small Fame at Vancouver’s The Venue on July 19th with FIELDS OF GREEN and YOUNG PACIFIC in tow – alongside a few other sporatic west coast live show offerings (see below).

Take it from those in the know: if you haven’t ever seen BEND SINISTER live, do so immediately. - The Indie Machine


"Bend Sinister Unveil 'Small Fame' LP"

When Bend Sinister announced their On My Mind EP earlier this year, they hinted that a full-length would soon be on the way. Sure enough, the Vancouver prog-pop unit just confirmed that their latest long-player is called Small Fame and that it will be out on July 10 through File Under: Music.

Like the On My Mind EP, Small Fame was recorded by producer Shawn Cole (You Say Party, Yukon Blonde) at Fader Master and Mushroom studios in Vancouver.

Two of the album's 12 songs come from the prior EP ("Give It a Rest" and "Got You on My Mind"), while the other ten tracks are new. According to a press release, these tunes give Bend Sinister a chance to "carry out their traditional brand of classic rock influenced song writing while maintaining a uniquely modern twist throughout the entire album."

Check out the opening track "She Don't Give Up" at the bottom of the page.

Scroll past the tracklist to see the band's upcoming tour schedule, which is made up of a handful of Canadian gigs in June and July.

Small Fame:

1. She Don't Give It Up
?2. Don't You Know
?3. Man of Faith and Virtue
?4. One Shot
?5. Got You on My Mind
?6. My Lady
?7. We Know Better
?8. Give It a Rest
?9. Hot Blooded Man
?10. Black Magic Woman
?11. She Lost Her Rock and Roll
?12. Quest for Love

Tour dates:

6/19 Calgary, AB - Sled Island Festival ^
6/24 Calgary, AB - Sled Island Festival ~
7/19 Vancouver, BC - Venue *
7/20 Kamloops, BC - Cactus Jacks
?7/21 Vancouver, BC - Khatsalano Festival

^ with the Dudes
~ with Archers of Loaf
* with Fields of Green and Young Pacific
- Exclaim!


"Bend Sinister Unveil 'Small Fame' LP"

When Bend Sinister announced their On My Mind EP earlier this year, they hinted that a full-length would soon be on the way. Sure enough, the Vancouver prog-pop unit just confirmed that their latest long-player is called Small Fame and that it will be out on July 10 through File Under: Music.

Like the On My Mind EP, Small Fame was recorded by producer Shawn Cole (You Say Party, Yukon Blonde) at Fader Master and Mushroom studios in Vancouver.

Two of the album's 12 songs come from the prior EP ("Give It a Rest" and "Got You on My Mind"), while the other ten tracks are new. According to a press release, these tunes give Bend Sinister a chance to "carry out their traditional brand of classic rock influenced song writing while maintaining a uniquely modern twist throughout the entire album."

Check out the opening track "She Don't Give Up" at the bottom of the page.

Scroll past the tracklist to see the band's upcoming tour schedule, which is made up of a handful of Canadian gigs in June and July.

Small Fame:

1. She Don't Give It Up
?2. Don't You Know
?3. Man of Faith and Virtue
?4. One Shot
?5. Got You on My Mind
?6. My Lady
?7. We Know Better
?8. Give It a Rest
?9. Hot Blooded Man
?10. Black Magic Woman
?11. She Lost Her Rock and Roll
?12. Quest for Love

Tour dates:

6/19 Calgary, AB - Sled Island Festival ^
6/24 Calgary, AB - Sled Island Festival ~
7/19 Vancouver, BC - Venue *
7/20 Kamloops, BC - Cactus Jacks
?7/21 Vancouver, BC - Khatsalano Festival

^ with the Dudes
~ with Archers of Loaf
* with Fields of Green and Young Pacific
- Exclaim!


Discography

Still working on that hot first release.

Photos

Bio

Building on their reputation as one of Canada's most energetic and prolific indie rock bands, Bend Sinister released their American debut "Small Fame" in the summer of 2012. The subsequent tours brought the band throughout North America and included stops at CMJ, Canada House at SXSW, sessions with Daytrotter.com, JBTV and AXS Live as well as feature spots on KROQ in LA and numerous college and community stations in the US. Notable shows included sellout performances in Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton and Regina as well as showcases at the Roxy Theatre in LA and performances at That Damn Show in Phoenix and Breakout West in Calgary. "Small Fame" peaked at #18 on the Canadian College Radio Chart and #115 on CMJ. The album was nominated for a Western Canadian Music Award for "Best Rock Recording" and a Sirius XM award for "Best Emerging Artist".

The band is currently recording their followup in San Diego with Grammy nominated producer Joe Marlett.

Band Members