artist Maps of the Night Sky

Formed in 2002, Maps of the Night Sky’s self-titled debut full-length follows through on the tender promise of their critically acclaimed 2004 EP, Twilighters, and continues their pursuit of literate, penetrating lyrics and modest, engaging indie rock. Recorded at Chemical Sound Studios and the band’s own Tinshop Recorders, the album casually cascades between achingly barebone guitar treks (‘Compression Applies’, ‘Islands’), crowd-moving hip-shakers (‘We Were Young’, ‘Listen to God’), and piano-led dirges drowned in darkest night (‘When Monologues Fail’) with simple grace and firey passion. Laying back and letting Maps of the Night Sky pass over you is akin to being paid a visit from an old friend. Part of this debut’s soulful essence, deep charm and wide lyrical scope was the result of chief songwriter Ray Cammaert’s month-long stay in an isolated house in BC’s Yalakom Valley in early 2005. This feeling of laid-back solitude and determined contemplation fuels Maps of the Night Sky’s dream-like aesthetic, meticulously articulated by the band (Wes Gerbrandt on bass, Dean Bentley on drums; Ray handled vocals, guitars, piano and organ). Shortly after the album was finished, Isaac Cull joined the band on keyboards. Maps of the Night Sky will be released May 23, 2006 on the bands’ Locust Mount label with touring to follow.

Dean Bentley Drummer
Ray Cammaert Guitarist/Singer
Wes Gerbrandt Bassist