Being always interested and curious in all things Vancouver, I always like to dig into local reader's polls to see what's on the minds of folks in town. I picked a copy of the West Ender's "Reader's Choice: Best of the City" last week and after going thru the eats section (Chambar got Best One-of-a-Kind restaurant, Nook was voted Best New Restaurant), I came onto a pleasant new discovery in the music poll: Hey Ocean! It was cool to me because we all know and hear about the many sick indie bands from town and the many dope DJs doing their thing. But I dont think we've ever had a band like this from Vancouver - none that rings my memory anyhow. A pop band that seems to be rounded out on a sunny/tropical/happy jazzy/folky/soul vibe. The vocalist Ashleigh Ball has an amazing voice that reminds me somewhat of one of my favourites (sometimes Vancouver resident?) Esthero and a bit of Corinne Bailey Rae too (who happens to be playin the Commodore on Apr. 9) as well.
West Ender Interview with Hey Ocean!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8LbK0Bj_cw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dz73dsMAkE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nhssMi2FtA
