The Band
The art of telling stories, of expressing emotion, of speaking with rhythm and register, has been a need of humanity since the very beginning. Without storytelling, we have silence. Head of the Herd is opposite that silence, the musical collision of our bluesy forefathers’ storytelling, with the palpable energy of Rock n’ Roll.
The Vancouver based band has recently completed their sophomore record and they’ve unmistakably found their stride. Harnessing the energy of their live show, this record highlights the beastly, melodic, storytelling prowess that is Head of the Herd. They created the album in two sessions. The first with one of rock’s most sought after producers Gggarth Richardson, the man behind Rage Against the Machine’s chart topping debut, Biffy Clyro’s 2013 UK #1 album “Opposites” and countless in between. The second session was produced by Rick Jackett & James Black from the multi-platinum group Finger Eleven. The Album is set for a June 4 release. The album will be named after the first single, a duet with Jasmin Parkin from Mother Mother titled “By This Time Tomorrow.” That song is currently in the top 20 on the national active rock charts.
In the time since the release of their debut LP “On The House,” Head of the Herd has gained significant momentum. Being named Fox Seeds winners (previous winners include Nickelback, Matthew Good Bif Naked & More) was only the beginning. They’ve toured across the Country for Canadian Music Week, released music videos for their radio singles, played Telusfest, the Grey Cup Festival, and have opened for The Sheepdogs and the Trews. Their single “Knock Me Down” has taken them on and beyond the radio, being featured in Rip Curl and well as GT Bikes/Red Bull videos online.
Their debut single “Ain’t My Day” has been played on radio throughout Western Canada and online, with a video by acclaimed director Luke Hansen-MacDonald. And recently, Billabong has used their chilling tale of “Erinyes” for their Damn AM TV show.
Head of the Herd is modern blues with a hell of an edge, and they’re proud to unveil their sophomore LP, “By This Time Tomorrow.” Take some time to meet the band.
NeuA multi-instrumentalist with a chilling voice, Neu’s sound paradoxically warms the soul and pulls you into the story. He is energetic and passionate, and through Head of the Herd’s distinct lyrics, you can feel his emotion in every song. Neu takes the structure of traditional blues and adds a modern flavour; Rock sensibility, haunting vocals and, now and again, a throat splitting scream.
- Date of Birth: June 21st, 1987 in Calgary AB
- Instruments: Lead Vocals, Guitar, bass, harmonica, piano, and organ.
ClayFirst and foremost a ‘wordsman’, Clay couples lyricism with an innate ability to write boot stomping, bar shaking guitar riffs that make him a dynamic and accomplished songwriter. If Head of the Herd is a musical storm then Clay is the silent lightning bolt to Neu’s screaming thunder. You will hear his smooth yet gravel coated throat singing balancing out Neu’s possessed wail.
- Date of Birth: February 21st, 1984 in Comox BC
- Instruments: Guitar, harmonica, background vocals
Lydia
Lydia is a notable part of the live band for her harmonious backing vocals, driving organ playing, and ferocious use of a tambourine. Also a talented singer/songwriter, she’s a force to be reckoned with on stage.
- Date of Birth: January 17th 1988 in Vancouver BC
- Instruments: Piano, Organ, Tambourine, Percussion.
Dave
If you’ve seen Head of the Herd live, you’ve likely witnessed the destructive power of Dave ‘Mercedes’ Gens on the drums. He’s hard hitting, with a handle on swinging a beat that’s lost in rock drummers of this era.
- Date of Birth: June 8th, 1987
- Instruments: Drums
Wes
He grew up on the same street as Neu and has been playing in bands with him since they were 13. When Wes’ not holding down the low end with HOTH, he is the lead singer of Wes Mack & The Wildflowers.
- Date of Birth: March 15, 1987 in Calgary AB
- Instruments: Bass
