Iconic Canadian rock band The Northern Pikes defied the odds, releasing a brand-new studio album in June, Forest Of Love – the group’s first new release since 2003 – and are hitting the road this fall. The band will perform at Casino Nova Scotia’s Schooner Room in Halifax on Friday, Oct. 4 at 8 p.m.
Forest of Love is the first album to feature new group member Kevin Kane (The Grapes Of Wrath). He joins founding members Jay Semko, Bryan Potvin and Don Schmid, the gang responsible for classic hits “She Ain’t Pretty,” “Teenland,” “Things I Do For Money,” “Wait For Me,” “Hopes Go Astray,” “Girl With A Problem,” “Kiss Me You Fool,” “Believe.” and more.
The new album rings true with the beloved Pikes sound, plus a new guitar edge with Kane’s addition. You get that great variety the band always brings, with rockers, smart ballads, and bright hooks and harmonies, thanks to the luxury of having three top-flight singer/songwriters on board. Leading the way is the edgy first single “King In His Castle,” where nasty guitar verses meet a gorgeous, catchy chorus. In other words, the hits are back, the Pikes are back.
The Northern Pikes were formed in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in January 1984. Over the next two years the band recorded and released the independent LP’s The Northern Pikes(1984) and Scene In North America (1985) with producer and pal Mitch Barnett. The original lineup was spawned from the ashes of three local groups, The Idols, Doris Daye and 17 Envelope, and consisted of Jay Semko (Vocals, Guitar), Merl Bryck (Vocals, Guitar), Bryan Potvin (Guitars) and Glen Hollingshead (Bass). In 1985 Glen left the band & Jay moved back to playing bass, numerous drummers came and went until June of 1986, when Don Schmid (The Idols) joined to make it a permanent quartet. They went on to receive eight JUNO Award nominations and released four Gold records and one double Platinum record. Most recently, they received a SOCAN Classic Award to commemorate 100,000 radio performances for their classic hit single, “She Ain’t Pretty” in Canada.
Tickets are $42 in advance and $47 day of show (including tax and service fee) and will be available at the Ticket Atlantic box office, participating Atlantic Superstores, Casino Promotions Desk, (902) 451-1221 (1-877-451-1221) and sonicconcerts.com. Additional fees may apply. This show is restricted to ages 19+. Valid ID required. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m.