The Victoria, BC-based, Crimson Star writes and performs music that is progressive folk-rock, with a twist of new wave, a twist of jazz & blues and a twist of pop. The music captures the romance of a bygone era in a modern fusion of styles. The lyrics are poetic, emotive and clever. The vocals are lush, deep and resonant and feature gothic and eclectic multiple harmonies. The set takes the listener on a journey of stories, told in the best folk-fusion style. The vocals go from light and airy to velvet, passionate and powerful. If you are a lover of good music, with eclectic tastes, you will love this band.
“This music instantly brings up images of the Smiths meets the Cowboy Junkies. It is part sixties folk and part twenty-first century rural meets urban adventurism...”
– Chris K., Pro Critic Radio
Crimson Star have consistently entertained audiences and captured their attention and respect by playing music that is lyrically strong and meaningful, with catchy arrangements, put together in an eclectic and interesting mix that has something for every listener. Crimson Star have an exciting and passionate stage presence and real rapport with each other. Genuine and vulnerable, their unforgettable live performance will resonate in your soul for a long time after. It is no wonder that this band won the Live Performance of the Year Award at the 2006 Island Music Awards (under the name Caroline Spence Band).
“...A prismatic and charismatic performer with many unique and important things to say.”
– Danica Nolan, Indiemark
Caroline's voice is singular, exciting and breathtaking in its power and resonance. Her vocals need no modification to reach across a crowded theatre and no reverb to be resonant and flowing. Her voice is naturally smooth and delicious. She has an incredible talent for vocal improvisation and will amaze you with her power and range, as well as her emotional and honest delivery. Hard to believe, this young woman was told she would never be a singer at a young age. She has risen above the odds to share her stunning gift with others with a humble grace. Adam Basterfield (Pigs, Permanent Frequency) adds his expansive vocal range, bringing matching lush harmonies to the mix that are reminicent of October Project and Kate Bush. Intricate interplay between sweet-toned guitar sounds and dreamy orchestration from a myriad of instruments, create a unique musical tapestry. "We like to create a sense of stepping into a magical space, something just outside the realm of the 'day to day' with our shows," says Caroline, "we weave a tapestry of song that speaks to the beauty in each person present." Friends join in from time to time to fill out the acoustic sound and transform the performance into a powerful, pulsing, energetic and vibrant rock show.
“Reminding me of some of the great music that I've heard from the Projekt label...the female vocals/harmonies are especially great...definite ear candy... ”
– Tim MacAleese, Canadian Rawk Network
Crimson Star (under their former name, Caroline Spence Band) toured across Canada 3 times and have played numerous festivals. The band have been honoured to share the stage with some of Canada's best folk and independent artists including Ember Swift, Melissa McLelland, Shauna Major, T.Nile, Rae Spoon, Chris Belsito, Carmen Townshend (Shek) and The Gruff. The band was invited to open for Melissa Ferrick (opening act for Ani diFranco) as part of Whistler Pride Week. They then found themselves listed as one of Canada's top 12 indie bands as part of the Mazda Music Tour as well as being asked to showcase at NewMusicWest in Vancouver.
“Rusticated soft rock with finely meshed female vocals.. will make listeners think of the tradition- steeped melodies of Kate and Anna McGarrigle and the October Project.”
– Listen
The band's music (under the name Caroline Spence Band) has been played on CBC and college radio. Their 6-song EP, 'hello' was produced by Michael Jack (Jann Arden, Rush, The Trews) and featured the award winning song, 'Hey Gemini' as the lead track. "I tried to capture a light-hearted feel with 'Hey Gemini' and arrived somewhere at 'wistful'," laughs Caroline, "even though our songs each have different themes and meanings, I think they are all essentially 'love' songs because that's what's invariably in my heart when I'm writing." 'Live at the Glenn Lake Inn', their live cd from 2006, captures an unforgettable early performance of the band. The band are currently working on a new studio album under their new 'moniker' set for release in Fall 2009, and will be performing a 'one of a kind' independent music tour this summer (stay tuned!). The band will also continue their work to support other independent artists as well as through a number of collective projects, such as the Cornerstone Collective.
“What a beautiful voice she has. It has depth...”
– Pete McDonald, Peer
AWARDS & RECOGNITION:
Regional Winner - Mazda Music Tour 2008
Live Performance of the Year 2006 - Island Music Awards
Canadian Musician Magazine Talent Search Winner 2002
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS:
Numerous festivals and tours including:
New Music West 2008 - Showcase
Mazda Music Tour 2008
Whistler WinterPride 2008 - Opening for Melissa Ferrick
Tom Lee Sounds of Summer Showcase 2007
Wyld Lily Gypsy Caravan - National Festival Tour 2007
Invermere Canada Day Festival - Main Stage 2007 & 2008
Benefit for Animal Rescue - 2007
We are Lost - National Tour 2006
Invermere Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts 2006
Whatshan Festival 2006
Fernwood Festival 2006 & 2008
Elemental Tour - National Tour 2005
Invermere Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts 2005
Arts Wells Festival 2005, 2006 & 2008
BAND MEMBERS:
Caroline Spence - vocals, rhythm guitar, glockenspiel, keys, knobs
Adam Basterfield - vocals, guitars, keys, melodica, bass
Brad Hawkes - percussion
and friends!
