As The Rising Suns, vocalist Troy and guitarist Leo had headlined a western Canadian tour, opened a showcase at Tumbler Ridge’s Grizfest 2 years in a row, and released two songs produced by The Trews’ Jack Syperek. When they introduced bassist Braedan Royer, prodigy guitarist Jordan Phillips, and drummer/co-vocalist Connor Brooks (Warless, Ripple Illusion, Coldwater Road), the band reinvented itself as Chase the Bear. As Chase the Bear, lead singer Troy continues to dominate the stage with his electrifying presence and smoky, powerhouse vocals while the rest of the band delivers biting, bluesy riffs, blistering drum fills, and tasty harmonies. The band is also known to show off other member’s talents, having Troy and Connor switch vocal and drum duties, and Braedan and Leo switch bass and guitar in the middle of shows, making the live element an unpredictable and dynamic experience.
Inspired by the greatest music of the past century, Chase the Bear draws inspiration anywhere from the harmonious pop-sensibilities of The Beatles, to the hard-hitting groove of Led Zeppelin, and various elements of funk, soul, and modern rock. Since their inception in July 2017, they toured throughout B.C. and got the opportunity to showcase in front of the B.C. Touring Council, who enthusiastically commented,
“The fresh-faced Chase the Bear members rocked us with their performance … for such a young act, they delivered with professionalism and passion”
In January 2018, they won first place in Live Acts’ Best In Vancouver competition where they wowed the sold-out Railway Club and the industry judges. Immediately after their performance, producer Danny Craig (The Vidos, Aviator Shades, Default) approached the band, expressing he was impressed by their authenticity and passion. Since then, Danny has been offering guidance in their music career. Tommy Mac of Hedley also referred to them as “lightning in a bottle”. For the rest of the year, Chase the Bear plans to release their first recorded material, as well as tour more throughout Western Canada, including a confirmed spot Tumbler Ridge’s Grizfest Music Festival in August.