Double Rider, have released their highly-anticipated debut album “Times of the Day” we sat down to talk to the band about the challenging, yet rewarding recording process, and what it is that makes them happy.
Double Rider, are siblings Hannah and Lennon Owl Child and cousin Erin Many Heads from Siksika Nation, Alberta. The trio has unleashed their highly-anticipated full-length debut, “Times of the Day,” on the world via the Major Minor Music Project label. The nine-track record pays homage to the classic soft rock stylings of bands like CCR and The Doobie Brothers, while also serving as a touching tribute to the band’s late grandfather, Matthew Many Heads.
Drawing on Many Heads’ politically-charged songbook, Double Rider have lovingly reimagined seven tracks penned by the patriarch between 1972 and 1992, seamlessly blending in their own songwriting flourishes and positive undertones for a fresh take on timeless classics. The band’s signature sound, which they’ve dubbed “contemporary-classic rock,” shines through on the record, with standout tracks like “One More Time” and “Happy Is How I Feel” showcasing their ability to channel their emotions through their music with an authenticity that belies their years.
The band open up about the recording process, revealing that it was a challenging yet rewarding experience. As they worked to incorporate each member’s unique vocal and instrumental talents, they also managed to stay true to the spirit of Many Heads’ original vision for the songs. The result is a cohesive and powerful debut that is sure to win them legions of fans both in their native Canada and beyond.
While the loss of their beloved grandfather has been keenly felt by the band, they are clearly determined to carry on his legacy with pride and passion. Their live shows, which have garnered acclaim for their high energy and captivating performances, continue to win over audiences around the country, and with “Times of the Day,” Double Rider have cemented their place as one of Canada’s most exciting new acts. Keep an eye out for what comes next from this talented and inspiring trio.
Happy: Many of the songs on your latest album Times of the Day pay tribute to Matthew Many Heads. Why was it important that his presence was felt on the album?
Double Rider: Before our grandfather passed on, we made a promise that we would share his music with everyone. Through that promise, we wanted to encapsulate his original intentions with the songs while adding our own interpretation. Also, we grew up jamming to his songs with him, which allowed us to preserve his initial vision without changing too much.
Happy: You’ve talked about Matthew Many Heads’ politically-themed music as a way for him to “let it out the best way he could.” How do you use your music to channel specific ideas of themes?
Double Rider: One of the things our grandpa said to us is that with music, you don’t have to dig too deep to find what you want to say, it’s already there and sometimes music just allows you to say it better than with words. For us, we each have our own voices and together, we’re able to say more than just individually. Sometimes it comes naturally through a jam session, other times it’s a little bit more work. But in the end, writing with vulnerability allows us to say what’s within without having to take it too seriously.
Happy: What did a typical day of the recording process look like when creating Time of the Day?
Double Rider: It was a lot of fun. A typical day consisted of taking it easy in the morning, and then pushing our limits by the end of the day. Some days were exhausting as we didn’t always agree with each other. But most of the time, it was rewarding going home at the end of each day and hearing the project become what it is.
Happy: As a trio act, how do you go about ensuring that all of your voices and talents are used when recording new material?
Double Rider: One of our strongest elements as a trio act is that we enjoy creating stuff together. When one of us has a new tune that we like, we head to our practice space and start adding to the tune collectively. Sometimes it goes in a completely different direction and we end up with something entirely new! But, mostly, we have a mutual understanding that it takes the three of us to complete a project, and through that, we’re all able to contribute our own style and voices to a new song.
Happy: You have a slew of festival appearances and headline gigs under your belt. What song of yours gets the biggest or most meaningful reaction when performed live?
Double Rider: Since our grandpa passed, we haven’t felt the same performing his songs, mainly because he isn’t in the crowd giving us his biggest smile of approval. However, recently we’ve received a different feeling when performing songs like “One More Time” (our grandfathers most beloved songs), and “Happy Is How I Feel” (a song he wrote that wasn’t heard by many). Now, the crowd is singing along to both, which leaves us with a bittersweet feeling during and after our shows.
Happy: Are there any books or movies that you feel inspire your work in music?
Double Rider: As silly as it sounds, the Lord of the Rings inspires us to an extent. The themes and messages within the movies and books feel like our own journey – our own fellowship. There is something bigger than us that we are trying to achieve. Also, the Commitments was an early influence as it was exciting to see their journey unfold. Movies like these have taught us about what it means to work together.
Happy: How would you say your sound has evolved? What are some throughlines sounds or themes present in all your projects?
Double Rider: It has evolved into a sort of “contemporary-classic rock” sound – a title we received after releasing our debut EP. We have found our comfort zone in the past couple of years. Our projects typically feature an unconventional bass sound – Erin has her own way of grooving on the bass, which makes our projects unique. Also, the alternating vocals between brother and sister highlight a specific sound that allows for variation between the song. Finally, a strong theme surrounding our projects is that no one is able to put us into a box, as in categorizing us into a single genre. Through that, we’re definitely able to cover more themes that aren’t limited to a particular idea.
Happy: Your first tour was notable in enlisting First Nations artists. Who are some of your own favourite First Nations musicians or bands?
Double Rider: There are so many First Nations musicians/bands that we’ve had the honour to share the stage with. Some of our favourites are Kirby Smith, Desert Orchid, Willy Big Bull, Rudy Strangling Wolf, to name a few.
Happy: One of your singles is called Happy Is How I Feel. What are some things that make you happy?
Double Rider: Being able to perform and create music makes us happy. And experiencing this journey together.
Happy: What’s next on the horizon for Double Rider? Any teases around upcoming projects?
Double Rider: Definitely making more music, and travelling further to share our music with others. We have some exciting shows coming up this summer – we’re super excited about that!
Listen to Times of the Day below:
