They are listened to and loved, conquering the stage and the hearts of audiences. Ottawa Trend presents popular local bands whose music heals, inspires, and provides relaxation. Perhaps you will find your favourite among them.
The Acorn
This Canadian indie-folk band hails from Ottawa, with a history dating back to 2003. The lead songwriter, as well as guitarist and vocalist, is Rolf Klausener. Among their popular albums, “No Ghost,” released in 2010, stands out.
The band’s music is distinguished by its vivid lyrics, serving as a unique brand—a blend of experimental and widely popular folk music. The musicians successfully transformed folk music into more contemporary forms.
By the summer of 2002, Rolf Klausener began writing music under the pseudonym “The Acorn.”
Early Steps and Song Releases
Musical experiments led to something bigger. The debut release under “The Acorn” was titled “The Pink Ghosts.” Listeners described the full-length album as melodious and instrumental. During this period, the band expanded with new talented musicians:
- Guitarist Jeff Debut;
- Guitarist Howie Tsui;
- Drummer Geoffrey Malecki.
In 2015, the song “Blankets!” was released—a melodic track that successfully blended pop music with experimental folk. Independent media, radio stations, and casual listeners highly praised their work.
The band made every effort to tour not only within Ottawa but also beyond.
A Difficult Period and Receiving a Grant
Losing his father at the age of 16 was a significant blow. The grief led Rolf to apply for several arts grants, resulting in the creation of a cycle of songs. By 2006, “The Acorn” received a grant from the Ottawa Arts Council as well as a local music grant.
Creative exploration continued, with careful review of older material. This resulted in a new mini-album featuring six tracks. Titled “Tin Fist,” it was released at the end of 2006.
This is an exciting band that has expanded beyond Ottawa. The musicians grace magazine covers and receive widespread acclaim across Canada, the U.S., and other countries.
Buried Inside
Vocal harmonies, creative drumming, and the use of dual octaves—all these elements characterized the band, formed in Ottawa in 1997. The band toured not only Ottawa but also North America alongside other popular groups.
Fans loved the band for their melodic effects and sombre film dialogue samples, complemented by cello. Throughout the band’s existence, only two guitarists changed, while the rest of the lineup remained stable:
- Guitarist and vocalist Andrew Tweedy;
- Vocalist Nick Shaw;
- Bassist and vocalist Steve Martin;
- Drummer Mike Godbout.
In 2005, “Buried Inside” signed with “Relapse Records,” releasing the album “Chronoclast.”
His Clancyness
Since 2013, the band has performed under this name. However, the story begins with its lead musician—Jonathan Clancy—who was born in Ottawa and grew up between Canada and Italy. This geographical background influenced his personality and musical taste.
His early experience came from playing in punk, hardcore, and indie bands. In 2009, he began his first solo experiments, which were well-received by internet listeners. His released collection of songs was impressive. The first release was a cassette with a run of just 100 copies, which quickly sold out.
Formation of the Band
When discussing influences, Clancy mentions several names, including “Swell Maps,” “Modern Lovers,” and “Stevie Nicks.” Eventually, his solo act transformed into a band, joined by friends Julia Mazo, Jacopo Borrazo, and Emanuele Drei. Their music is dynamic and full of energy—sharp, well-balanced, and meaningful in every track.
The Balconies
This band was founded in Ottawa in 2007. Its core members were Jacquie Neville, Liam Jaeger, and Stephen Neville. The group had a history of evolution. Jacquie and Stephen, siblings, formed a tight-knit unit along with Liam.
Their style ranged from indie rock to rock jams. They started performing in Ottawa bars, and over time, their music evolved, perhaps as they matured. The alternative rock trio eventually moved to Toronto to test their skills and break into a new music scene.
How It All Began?
The siblings had been involved in music since their teenage years. While studying at the University of Ottawa in 2005, Jacquie met Liam during a classical music class. This was a pivotal moment, as by the end of 2007, “The Balconies” was officially formed. In 2009, the Ottawa trio released their debut album, recorded and produced by Carlin Nicholson of “Zeus.”
By 2010, the group relocated from Ottawa to Toronto. A significant milestone was winning the annual competition hosted by a local Ottawa radio station, “Big Money Shot Live 88.5.” This brought them recognition, establishing the group as a rising leader in the music industry.
In 2013, “The Balconies” began performing at major European festivals such as “The Great Escape Festival” and “MIDEM.” In 2016, Stephen Neville left the group, and by the end of 2017, on their 10th anniversary, the band announced its dissolution. The final concerts in Toronto and Ottawa marked the end of “The Balconies.” Their last show took place at “The 27 Club” in Ottawa—the city where it all began, making it a fitting farewell.
In 2018, Jacquie Neville intrigued fans by announcing “The Balconies Collective,” hinting at a new creative phase for the members despite the band’s dissolution.
The Souljazz Orchestra
This Ottawa-based band stands out for blending multiple genres, including soul, jazz, Latin, funk, and Afrobeat. Imagine all these styles combined—a truly energetic and unique fusion. The band quickly gained popularity, partly due to signing with “Strut.”
In 2012, they completed two U.S. tours, stopping in several major cities. The group consists of:
- Michael Murray;
- Zakari Frantz;
- Philippe Lafrenière;
- Pierre Chrétien;
- Ray Murray.
Many are captivated by the band’s ability to merge jazz, funk, African, and Latin music. They also touch on spirituality and politics. Their electrifying live performances and collaborations with renowned artists only add to their growing reputation.
Kepler
Founded in 1996, this Ottawa-based post-rock band has seen numerous lineup changes, including guest musicians. The band’s slow tempos and quiet sound gradually gained momentum. Their extensive tours across Canada, the U.S., and Europe further solidified their reputation. Notably, “Kepler” even opened for “Godspeed You! Black Emperor” in Montreal.
Those Who Bring Ottawa Fame Beyond Its Borders
Unique, free-spirited, inspiring, and talented—these words best describe the bands mentioned above. They have gained recognition beyond their hometown, earning a loyal fan base and a dedicated audience of music lovers.
