Greenlaw brings a new take on their blend of progressive jazz, soul and funk to the stage at the Howe Sound Brew Pub on Saturday (June 30), but the Victoria/Toronto-based band's message hasn't changed.
"Our intent is always the same, to uplift people and provoke thought and emotion, and have people smile and dance," said front-woman and flutist Skyla J.
With the other half of Greenlaw, MC, bassist and pianist Michael Anthony Osbourne (Ozzie), the band begins a series of B.C. tours on the heels of recording its newest album - so new it has yet to be named - with UK's indy label Formation Records.
With Canadian routes, a UK label, back-up musicians from Russia, an extensive Canada, U.S., UK and Europe touring history, Greenlaw is expanding it's influence far beyond the Toronto street for which it is named.
Greenlaw's new tracks carry heavier instrumentation and a fuller sound, but the down-tempo groove, funky bass beats and smooth vocals haven't changed.
"It is a bit jazzier, but mostly there's a more international flavour, with musicians from Russia and production from the UK," said Skyla J. "I think it's more flavourful."
Five years and two albums old (Second Story Sessions and Time and Energy), Greenlaw may not have shot to fame, but they've definitely been moving up the Canadian and international music scene at a steady pace.
Already the band is winning accolades in the UK where it was short-listed as one of the top four best Soul/Funk acts at the Indy Music Awards. CBC Radio named Time and Energy one of the "top albums of 2005" and Victoria's Monday Magazine gave Greenlaw the "most memorable show of 2004" award.
Osbourne said he's looking forward to retuning to Squamish, where the band has played shows since the beginning.
"I love Squamish," he said. "It's a nice vibe, nice energy and we have a good time playing the music there. I really like the laid back atmosphere - I'm looking forward to that."
Both members said the band's new album, some tracks of which will be featured in their show, is a natural progression of Greenlaw's sound.
"I think it's evolved but it's still organic and still us," said Osbourne. "You fear they'll take your stuff and make it cheesy."For Osbourne, Greenlaw's message has also been preserved.
"The message in Greenlaw is overcoming, for me," he said. "Life is about overcoming and we all have problems, similar problems, we can share and try to overcome together. There'll always be tomorrow, so hold on."Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door and doors open at 9 p.m.
