biographical info
Misterfire brings a brand new flavour to the Canadian music scene with their debut album "All Lit Up". Blending together elements of ska, rock, reggae, funk, Latin and jazz, All Lit Up delivers a high-energy payload of tunes that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Here's what people are saying about the album:
"Many a young band has started with a bored teen picking up a guitar for the first time and strumming a few chords. Misterfire’s musical pedigree is something more impressive. The Saskatoon group... is experienced beyond its years."
~ Stephanie McKay, The Star Phoenix
"On All Lit Up, the band leapfrogs through high-octane ska that retains that solid level of musicianship and talent without ever coming off as boastful or showy. But even more importantly, Misterfire keeps things fun and dancey."
~ Chris Morin, Ominocity
All Lit Up was recorded at The Avenue Recording Company in Saskatoon during the second half of 2011. The album was co-produced by Misterfire’s own Ben Fortosky and The Avenue’s co-owner/engineer Mark Klopoushak. All Lit Up contains eleven unique original tracks that represent the band’s musical diversity, instrumental prowess and a refusal to be confined to a single genre. From upbeat ska-infused tracks like "Mixed Signals" and "That Guy" to smooth reggae-rock jams like "Oasis" and "Overboard" to witty party anthems like "The Wangster Song" and ".22 Pickup", All Lit Up provides tracks that appeal to listeners of all musical backgrounds.
Five musicians team up to create Misterfire’s killer (but non-life-threatening) sound. Ethan McKibben and Emmett Fortosky keep the groove on drums and bass in a truly tight rhythm section, while Jordan Welbourne supplies ear candy with his guitar solos and backup vocals. Misterfire’s unique and unrivaled keyboard sound is provided by Cameron Baribeau, who also adds some tasty trombone to the mix. Frontman Ben Fortosky tops off the musical mixture with his energetic lead vocals, rhythm guitar, and trumpet.
The band prides itself on its ability to put on a genre-spanning live show that contains funky improvised instrumentals, a high-energy stage presence, and a surefire guarantee to get any crowd dancing like there’s no tomorrow. Plus, having members who all share a common background in jazz ensures that the same show is never played twice. With an outstanding assortment of amazing originals and a crazy collection of customized covers, Misterfire's sound is guaranteed to get you fired up, and leave you wanting more.
lineup
Ben Fortosky Lead Vocals / Trumpet / Guitar
Cameron Baribeau Keys / Trombone
Jordan Welbourne Lead Guitar / Backing Vocals
Emmett Fortosky Bass / Backing Vocals
Ethan McKibben Drums
influences
The Cat Empire
Reel Big Fish
Sublime
North of Shorty
Mad Caddies