Healthy Scratch

HEALTHY SCRATCH follows a simple philosophy "We're not here to get musicians off, we're here to get the women dancing." Formed in 2004, the band has been working very hard at creating a solid foundation for the future. Playing everywhere from Lee's Palace to the Horseshoe Tavern to Grossman's Tavern and even some shady After Hours Clubs, the boys have really honed their performing skills and put on a fun show for the audience.

SCOTT BARAGAR has been playing bass ever since he started sucking at hockey. "You don't have to go in the corners when you're on the bass." He started playing in Belleville and was in a few bands with drummer, TIM McGUIRE. In 2000, he moved to Toronto to go to school and continue pursuing a career in music. SCOTT continued in the music scene in Toronto and began to grow as a singer/songwriter. Playing the open mics in Toronto with all the other singer/songwriters, SCOTT soon met PAUL McCANN and they started HEALTHY SCRATCH at the start of 2004.

TIM MCGUIRE has always felt at home behind a drum kit. His father was a drummer who's father was a drummer; his brother was a drummer who's uncle was also a drummer. He has basically been around drummers all his life and has developed a love for the art of drumming. Tim has been influenced by several different styles such as funk, Big band jazz, and heavy rock drumming. His greatest influences include Carter Beauford form the Dave Matthews Band and Neil Peart from the Canadian band Rush.

PAUL McCANN has been active in the Toronto music scene for a number of years now. He started off playing the solo bar gigs before starting Healthy Scratch with the other two founding members (SCOTT BARAGAR and TIM MCGUIRE). His background in music theatre helps the band with the creation of the interesting harmonies they are known for. Paul is a great musician to have in any line up, whether it be writing, singing or playing.

MIKE FERET has recently rejoined the Toronto music scene after an acoustic hiatus throughout Western Europe. His intensity and willingness to play under adverse conditions has rendered him compatible with the cornerstone traits of Healthy Scratch. Attracted to the band’s dedication to their music and more importantly their people, Feret finds himself to be the last piece of this puzzle.