Jack Rollin Dandies
Toronto, Ontario, Canada | SELF
Music
Press
It's been a long time since the Jack Rollin Dandies played a venue as intimate asToronto, ON's 300-capacity Horseshoe Tavern, and the concentrated energy of the die-hards packed into the room made it clear from the outset that this wouldn't be just another gig for the modern day southern blues rock torchbearers.
A stately, powerful version of "The Rolling Stones' Start Me Up" set the tone, and immediately erased any fears that the band's current five-piece lineup would be too much for the small space. All of the instruments and vocals came across warm and clear, and by the third number, "Lovemaker" from 2011's More than a Visit, both the band and the crowd could sense that something special was building.
That was confirmed when things were slowed down for "Worry In Your Step" and the title track of the band's latest album More Than A Visit, with vocalist/guitarist Johnny Ross squeezing every drop of drama out of both songs. Ross took over from that point on, finally acknowledging the spirit within the room and turning it into full-on celebration, beginning with the track "Not Some Stone" and ending with main set closer "Drunk N Stoned."
Ross remained in full Steven Tyler mode for the extended encore, wading into the crowd for guitar solos and resurrecting the true rock and roll spirit of bands like Aerosmith, The Who, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. He seemed genuinely moved by the reception, and hopefully his announcement to the audience that he would love the band to play Toronto again was also genuine. - Exclaim! Magazine
Discography
- More Than A Visit (2011) (LP)
Singles
Souless Honey
Worried Soul
Hey Sista
Due out Spring 2012
Photos
Bio
Their journey began as a three piece which included lead vocalist Johnny Ross, keyboardist Colin Sheppard and drummer Brian Cox. After a few months, guitar virtuoso Andy Thompson was recruited from local gigs and joined the band after his first rehearsal. Bassist Braden Docherty, fresh out of Mohawk College's music and performing arts program was also found gigging locally. Their sound is energetic and upbeat in an ultra laid back way, giving it a smooth, old-school feeling. The Dandies’ ability to infuse a ‘back in the day’ vibe with a modern twist has given them an edge on the current musical playing field.
Through word-of-mouth alone The Dandies have been playing local shows, filling up venues and establishing a solid and supportive fan base. Most recently they graced the stage of the legendary Horseshoe Tavern – one that has seen the likes of The Rolling Stones and Willie Neslon. After spending eight months rehearsing and writing new material, they recorded their self-titled demo in November 2009 to outstanding reviews. In April 2011, final work was completed to the mixes of the bands first full length record, More Than A Visit, now scheduled for release in August 2011. The Jack Rollin’ Dandies have just scratched the surface of their real potential – their passion and dedication to their music grows stronger with every song written and every show played.
Links
