Silverstein

Acquiring the name from the famous children's author, Silverstein was formed in early 2000 in an attempt to tear down the boundaries between Hardcore, Emo and Punk. Originally starting as a side project, the band was a chance for its members to try something new and get away from their current Punk, Metal, Ska and Hardcore bands.

The name "Silverstein" was chosen as a tribute to the author Shel Silverstein whom each band member had read growing up. Mr. Silverstein sadly passed away a few months before the band was started. The emotion, character, and wisdom reflected in his works were all important influences to the members who chose to honor his name.

Silverstein are from the thriving scene of Southern Ontario, Canada that includes such acts as Grade (R.I.P.), Jersey, Moneen, Somehow Hollow and Maharahj. Early shows were met with great response and the band quickly self-released their first EP, "Summer's Stellar Gaze" in Summer 2000. The release was greeted with strong local support that blossomed across the rest of Canada embracing this young band's refreshing and powerful sound.

As word of mouth spread, Silverstein underwent a transition, becoming the main project for all of its members. Founding guitarist Richard McWalter left the band and was replaced by former Maharahj guitarist Neil Boshart. The addition brought a myriad of new influences and ideas- solidifying and enhancing the band's developing trademark sound. With the new, solid lineup in effect, Silverstein toured throughout Eastern Canada and Quebec to very supportive audiences. In April 2002, their second EP "When the Shadows Beam" was released and found its way into the hands of Victory owner, Tony Brummel. After a meeting in Toronto and live show a month later, Silverstein was quickly signed in October 2002.

With influences ranging from The Get Up Kids to Grade, Mineral to Cave-In, and even Pedro the Lion to Slayer, Silverstein is a true mix of of multiple musical styles. Vocalist Shane Told's powerful melodic singing and gut wrenching screaming evoke the pain, struggle and emotion of the complex lyrics, which represent true feelings of heartbreak and frustration. Unlike much of the stagnant post-hard core scene today, Silverstein finds a way to keep the music unique and interesting, but always catchy and memorable. Musical innovations including a violin and adding 6/8 meter melodic parts to screaming breakdowns help to achieve this...

The sound is reinforced by the talented rhythm section made up of drummer Paul Koelher and bassist Bill Hamilton. At times it is nearly impossible to differentiate the shimmering, clean and distorted guitars of Boshart and Josh Bradford from human vocals, instantly captivating the listener with their harmony and power.