The Sonic Images
As I step into the basement studio, its red-hued walls lined with instruments and recording equipment, the unmistakable sound of Toronto's newest up-and-coming sensation fills my ears and soul. The sound is hard to describe, a mix of classic rock, jazz, and folk. Regardless of how you wish to classify the sound, it is definitely fresh, and engaging, luring me towards where The Sonic Images are hard at work, preparing for the next Supernova Battle of the Bands on September 12, 2008 at the Reverb and Holy Joe's in Toronto. The doors to the event open at five that evening. To be alerted when The Sonic Images’ final stage time is set, join the band’s official Facebook group (http://www.facebook.com/
It may be difficult to believe that these fresh-faced high school students are what make up one of Toronto's most acclaimed new bands, but behind those cheerful visages are minds and souls that have wowed audiences throughout the city. Their trademark fusion of several different musical styles and strong desire to create positive change through musical imagery has earned them applause from both critics and fans alike.
“We just wanted to capture important events of the world in our music,” explains Matt Snell, the lead singer and co-manager of The Sonic Images, “We give people experiences through sound; the brutality of war, the horrors of impoverishment in Africa, and other important issues that we think need more attention.”
Although it may seem like a lofty goal for such a group, the band’s noble outlook on its own role seems to be paying off. From its roots as a small high school band that just wanted to promote a single, political song, one which shed light on the horrors of the current war in the Middle East, The Sonic Images have written over a dozen pieces and just keep going. Even for this next event, the Supernova Battle of the Bands on September 12, 2008, the band has been busy polishing two new original pieces, which Matt says are strictly under wraps until the event. Along with the new additions, they will be performing two of their popular folk rock songs, as well as their fan-favorite jazz-style piece.
The Sonic Images will be appearing in the Supernova Battle of the Bands on September 12, 2008 at the Reverb and Holy Joe's in Toronto. The event is scheduled for a 5:00 P.M. start time and the band for the evening consists of its four usual members. This means that Matt Snell will be on guitar and provide vocals alongside Conor McSweeny, while Alex Solesa provides bass, and Conor Hall rounds out the foursome on drums.
More information about the Supernova Battle of the Bands can be found online at: http://www.supernova.com/
As for me, I soon quietly led myself out of the basement studio, not because I wanted to leave. Far from it, I simply thought better of overstaying my warm welcome and left the artists to their work. As I closed the door and walked back upstairs, sonic images came through my eardrums and etched themselves into my mind. Matt’s voice, cheerful, yet determined, carried itself upstairs behind me, “Awesome guys, but we can do better,” causing me to stop and smile. It’s always reassuring when the accomplished know they can do better.
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
