What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in music, and what was your journey to becoming a musician or band like?
The early days of youtube, combined with Ultimate Guitar tabs, really opened the doors to learning the instrument independently. The “Candyrat records” youtube channel was a great challenge to learn how to fingerpick on the acoustic guitar. I started in bands with like-minded friends in highschool, and continued networking through Windsor open mics and social media. – Matt
I’ve been playing music since the age of 2, my journey was full of ups and downs from touring to bands breaking up and everything in between but I always stuck it out. – Dave
Pursuing a career in this ever changing artistic climate is challenging but it is rewarding seeing the people around you flourish and drive you to become better yourself, the journey hasn’t always been easy but we press on with a regimented practice schedule and no nonsense rehearsal time as that is a limited commodity. – Ian
Matt and Dave connected during the pandemic to start a socially distant 90s cover band but ended up branching off to make their own songs. Matt suggested bringing in a local jazz bassist, Ian, and the band formed from there.
Who are some of the musicians or musical acts that have had the most significant impact on your work and your sound?
I find it hard to hear the influences! My favourite album hands down would have to be Alice in Chains unplugged. I also enjoy the guitar work of Dave Matthews. My parents grew up in the Napster era (God forgive them) so tracks from the sixties onward were often being played. From popular to obscure, rock to R&B. We are a music loving family. -Matt
Listening to the demos Matt has sent me during my on-boarding for this project I got the sense of a Dave Matthews Band feel to it; I studied his long-time bassist, Stephan Lessard; in my private practice I listen to a lot of jazz, especially Charles Mingus and Paul chambers. -Ian
I’ve spent 15 years playing with older musicians were I am able to learn and appreciate all varieties of music, my favorite would have to be the gaslight anthem. Our band definitely has its own unique indie style, with relatable lyrics for everyone. -Dave
Can you describe the progression of your musical style and what sets it apart from others in the industry?
We make music for the sake of the moment. It exists for the moment we are feeling even if the song was written 4 years ago. We face a lot of challenges and emotions as a band and night after night we bring those front and center within our playing. -Ian
I really have no idea what sets us apart. Alternate tunings maybe? We go and play shows, people like it. They inspire us to keep going. Its all in the moment. -Matt
Could you elaborate on the backstory and significance of your artist or band name?
To me the band name is just a reflection on humans in general. The voice in your head is a mad, mad thing. It can make you or break you. What makes us strong makes us fragile.
How do you typically approach the songwriting process, and what role does collaboration play in your work?
A song almost always starts with a riff for me. Typically this riff will fit in a chorus, or as a recurring instrumental break. Then you find your verse/bridge progressions and start thinking about lyrics. Buy a pocket book and keep it on you at all times, start writing a story that fits with the mood/energy of the music.
Collaborating is difficult. It is also an amazing team building exercise. Through time each band member discovers their strengths and you have to keep an open mind to suggestions. 99% of the time, the most fitting musical ideas will be mutually agreed upon. -Matt
Can you share with us a particularly meaningful or personal song in your discography, and what inspired it?
Lyrics are particularly challenging, and in “Narcissist” they fit just right, and tell a story. This story resonates with our band name. It paints a picture in the listener’s head.
Could you discuss the evolution of your live shows and performances, and what you aim to convey through them?
Strange Creatures practiced and wrote for about 2 years before playing live, we started with open mics then moved to our own shows.
We want people to come out and have fun. It’s all in the moment. I try not to spend too much energy on how we look up there, what message we are sending. Ultimately, how we sound is what’s important. It’s just music. The message is for your ears. All content no cover!
Can you recall any memorable or unique experiences you have had while touring or performing?
We played with a Detroit act, Ver’zell, this past winter and he invited Dave, the drummer, and I to jam “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers and Prince’s “Little Red Corvette ‘’. I wasn’t given’t much notice with what songs we would play, maybe an hour; getting up there I was a tad nervous. It was thrilling and electric. The crowd’s energy and the knife’s edge of will this fail or not, it could not be recreated again. -Ian
The most memorable show we played so far for me was held by the “Dissociation Dude” who is a local artist, we played with Bird Witness at the Phog. The community that came together and put the venue at capacity had the best energy. Its rewarding to be a part of that. -Dave
What is your perspective on the current state of the music industry, and how do you see it evolving in the future?
The music industry is pretty mysterious. It’s a tough gig. I have no idea where it’s going and I expect nothing from it. Its this mindset that keeps playing music enjoyable.
How has your hometown or region shaped your musical identity, and what elements of it do you attempt to incorporate into your work?
It’s hard to pinpoint the influences of Windsor on our music, but the VENUES in Windsor most certainly have contributed to our growth and exposure. Phog Lounge, Villains, and Craftheads all have been crucial to us gaining traction in the Windsor community.
Could you share any exciting new projects or collaborations you have in the works?
We will be playing a set at Phog on Saturday May 25th, 2024. This is a special event that will include performances all day at Phog and its sister venue Meteor across the street. The show is in support of the venues themselves and is sure to pull one hell of a crowd. Check out Phog Lounge on FB for forthcoming details.
