Our first-time intro to any music artist begins with our Artist Profile, where we learn about them and their music, directly from them.
Name: 1951
CMW Show(s): Wednesday, May 7 @ 2am – Rancho Relaxo
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Music Genre: Indie Rock/Alternative Rock/Pop
Year it all began: 2011
A quick introduction: The year the term “rock and roll” was coined. 1951 (pronounced “Nineteen Fifty One”) was initially started as a studio project by producer Dan Hosh & songwriter Mike Tudisco. With the release of 2011’s “The Light That Went Away,” the band quickly began touring across Southern Ontario, winning over audiences with their own brand of atmospheric indie rock. When the band took a hiatus to work on their sophomore release, 1951 enlisted Mario Da Silva (Lead Vocals) and Kevin Dennison (Guitar) to edge out a fresh perspective on their new record. In 2013, all four members of the group re-located to Toronto, Ontario to put more focus on the band. “The best and worst part about 1951 is that every member of the band is a songwriter,” recounts Hosh. “We always have a daunting mountain of songs waiting for us. Living together allowed us to write songs more efficiently.” 1951 is slated to release their second EP titled “New Doors” June 2014.
What got you into music? The aesthetic of being in a band was the coolest thing in the world growing up. I think we were all drawn to the counter culture of local bands. Naturally, as you progress you realize being in a band and loading gear at 3am every night is not very sexy at all. At a certain point, you’re really doing it because you love it.
What are your sources of inspiration? All four members of the band grew up in Cambridge, Ontario where going to local shows and listening to new music was all we did. No doubt, we aspire to be as prolific as some of our favourite artists, but we draw inspiration from our present moments, already told pasts and thoughts about where we are going. The honesty is there, and we only hope that it becomes relatable to anyone who lends an ear.
Dream gig? The chance to share the stage with any of your favourite artists is something you always dream of.
Your thoughts on Canadian Music Week? CMW is quite an interesting take on the festival idea. No camping in a field (Woo!) – But what you do get is an opportunity to explore Toronto and all that it has to offer – into the very early hours of the morning. This is our second time performing at the festival, and we love CMW.
Interesting points others don’t know about you? We live in a house together in Toronto. Mario never does the dishes.
