biographical info
Atlas Shrug is the result of the combined interpretations of rock music in these past decades and the determination of four musicians to aid in the progression of this style into the 21st century.
Powerful, unique and determined, the group has been steadily and meticulously crafting their sound since 2007. Their eponymous debut album is redefining the industry label 'independent', having been produced, engineered, funded and
recorded entirely by the band at their private recording environment 'Mind For Music Studios'. With this recording the group has gone against numerous modern recording industry standards, refusing to use digital enhancements such as pitch correction (auto-tune), electronic instruments and drum triggering to capture what they feel is the essence of true rock music and what makes their sound unique: well thought out, tightly rehearsed arrangements of new musical ideas, performed by an adept group of young musicians without the need for digital aids.
Despite their diverse individual backgrounds, all four members decided to pursue music as both a creative outlet and a life-long profession. While their paths were separate, each one ultimately converged in Edmonton to study music at Grant
Macewan College. Since their time at the school, all four members have crafted well known and respected musical careers, serving as freelance musicians to various Canadian artists along with starting numerous original projects in various other veins of music.
Steve Frise, the group's guitarist, spent most of his life in Calgary and Edmonton, studying music on his own. Having played numerous instruments in his childhood, he eventually became infatuated with the electric guitar, and the possibilities of
expression that it offered him. Using music as a vessel, Steve also became a diligent student of sacred geometry, combining his knowledge of the ancient study with the immense world of music theory. This allowed him to develop an intense mystical connection with music and composition, which has manifested itself in much of Atlas Shrug's music.
Growing up in both Vancouver and Calgary gave Atlas Shrug's bass player Khi Mattu the opportunity to explore and submerse himself in many different musical styles. He has spent the last few years refining a bass sound that is both highly recognizable and distinct, distinguishing himself from his numerous contemporaries. Khi's fascination with the deeper issues related to the universe has, and will continue to be a cornerstone in his work with the group.
Vocalist Glen Gosney has always been singing since he was very small and so, very quickly, discovered his ability to use his voice to create interpretations of the world around him. Growing up in Hinton, just outside of Jasper Park, Glen was fortunate enough to develop a deep love and respect for nature. He saw the importance of the divine patterns and intricacies of life and he immersed himself in it. Music soon became a method of escape and productivity as a result of turmoil in his life. Glen joined a children's choir, began taking voice lessons and started competing in small festivals. Picking up a guitar for the first time in junior high brought about a flood of musical ideas. Glen has expanded his abilities in two rock bands throughout high school, always creating new music, and has never stopped. Glen's work in Atlas Shrug is the result of frustrations regarding the degradation of the human spirit and the destruction of our harmonious earth.
The bands drummer, Ian Morris, has been an obsessive music student since the age of seven. Studying both the classical piano and snare drum allowed him to start a lifelong crusade, constantly fine-tuning both his musical ear and craft. A relentless perfectionist, Ian is constantly educating himself to the different styles, time signatures and melodies of the world, bringing those influences into the band's songwriting process. Having always sensed a pulse of rhythm through his body, he utilizes Atlas Shrug as a means to explore and compose the irregular meters that enthrall and fascinate him.
Atlas Shrug's music is characterized by the unique use of time signature changes as a method of musical sublimation. The melodic intensity of the vocals are derived directly from the harmonically rich sound-scape created by the instruments. The introspective nature of the music is apparent in all four instruments; vivid imagery lies behind every aspect of the music,
from the vocals down to the arrangements. Atlas Shrug maintains strict philosophies towards the music they create; their goal is to push the limits of rock music while not sacrificing melody or their artistic integrity. Already receiving staggering praise from music lovers and industry personnel alike, the group intends to use their music and compelling live show to gain support locally and internationally in the coming years.
influences
Led Zeppelin
Tool
Meshuggah
Incubus
Nine Inch Nails