Describing their music as “smooth, crunchy,” Tofu Stravinsky is set to release their latest EP — BTTRMLK at The Royal.
Never intending to cook up the naturally evolving food theme, the band of local musicians feels their music feeds the soul.
Indie rock meets jazz; the latest Tofu album is a collaboration of Tyler Toews on guitar and vocals; Sarah Orton singing; Quillan Hanley playing bass; Malik Mourah on drums and Jon Perry — their third and “best” synth player.
“There are some really talented and committed people here. I’ve been playing music for a long time and this is really special,” says Toews. “We’ve found people who are on the same page.”
Also known for his work with Miss Quincy and Val Kilmer and the New Coke, Toews has one album previously released under the Tofu Stravinsky name. The solo project introduced Orton on a few vocals. Described by Toews as “one of the coolest voices in Canada,” it was the beginning of their creative collaboration.
“It just worked well. We clicked,” said Toews. “Everything we do just kind of makes sense.”
Opening for Hey Ocean and more recently Tequila Mockingbird last month at The Royal, the band still feels excited — and a bit nervous to share the stage with some bigger names.
But sensing they’ve made something “real and true,” the Kootenay Crew is ambitious and confident — ready to showcase BTTRMLK, says Orton.
“I love Nelson but the opportunities aren’t here,” says the self-professed shy girl clearly comfortable on stage. “I am ready to leave to make this happen.”
BTTRMLK features lyrics considering perspective of the human experience. Orton, also a painter, contributes a picturesque feel to songs that are an artistic take on life, says Toews.
Yet, the music remains accessible — described as “good red wine in a coke can.”
The sophisticated album sound will explode onto the stage next week with many new songs getting play.
“If you buy this album after listening to us live, you aren’t going to hear the same thing,” says Orton.
The February 28 release party at the Royal marks the end of the yearlong endeavor by Toews
“Tyler is the king of time,” says Orton. “If he thinks something is going to be beautiful, he’ll give it his time.”
Rumour has it “the king of time” will be celebrating his birthday on that Thursday. Tickets are $5 at the door opening at 8 p.m.
Tofu Stravinsky is also competing in Searchlight, the CBC Radio 3 contest to find Canada's best new artist. You can help out by voting for them daily at r3.ca/0YSA.