Toronto-based band “The Mellow Revs†is an energetic mix of Rock, Jazz and Funk. The band formed in 2005 when Vancouver born Jas Knapp met Toronto local Jason Bigue. The band has been making music ever since, with several different lineups.
What's up with the name?
Shortly after the formation of the band, the group came across an article in a local newspaper about a man attempting to shake hands with complete strangers. When asked by a journalist of his intentions, he replied, “I'm starting a mellow revolutionâ€. The band loved it. However during a gig, local comedian Josh Ball inadvertently introduced the band on stage as “The Mellow Revs†and since then the name has stuck.
This band, without a doubt, is ready for the big time: exceptional song-writing abilities, an original sound, a strong local fan base, tight musicianship, and an outstanding live show make this group a must see for both fans and record industry people alike.
But the band isn’t mellow!
True, but fans of the band feel the moniker is perfect– their music tends to have dynamic arrangements, emphasizing “mellow†verses with engine-like “revs†for each chorus. Jas Knapp sums it all up: “We’re interested in well-crafted song structures and melody, never forgetting that we are first and foremost, a rock bandâ€.
So what’s the music like?
Their music has often been compared to The Foo Fighters, Matthew Good, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers. The ‘Revs draw from a wide range of influences- their music has a unique edge to it while still maintaining a broad appeal for music fans.
Jason "Jas" Knapp
After leaving one of Vancouver's most respected and critically acclaimed independent bands of the early 2000's, The SkyFishermen, Jas moved to Toronto with one goal in mind: to recruit an exceptional group of musicians to complete his musical vision - a journey that has led him to play with some of the best players on Toronto's music scene. Jas' exceptionally well-honed songwriting style has been compared with artists like Wide Mouth Mason, Chris Cornell, Jeff Buckley and the Beatles. If pressed, Jas would tell you he continues to seek fame and fortune so he doesn't have to explain to people what kind of music he plays anymore!
Jason "Beej" Bigue
A native of Toronto, Jason hooked up with Jas in 2005 to add his accomplished, melodic, and catchy guitar sound - a style that embellishes the overall feel of the band's sonic landscape. The group's “guitar manâ€, Beej constantly approaches each tune with an introspective feel, guaranteed to capture the listener's imagination. A word of caution to those invited to Mr. Bigue's home: he’s also well known for hosting non-linear jams that can go all night!
